Insight – January 2020

It seems there is always change in the wind.

Regarding change, 2020 does not appear to be much different here than it is anywhere else. California Southern Baptist Convention staff continue to make adjustments allowing for a higher level of response to our churches in the Golden State. These adjustments are constant and expected so they are viewed as simply part of helping make an impact on those in California who still don’t know Christ as their Savior.

Other changes are not as frequent and come with a greater degree of impact. One such change involves the retirement of people who have been and continue to be influencers. We know it is the way of things that those we have grown to love and appreciate will one day end their time as part of the team.

Emotions are mixed. We are excited for them as they enter the next chapter of their lives but sad that we will not see them as often as we once did.

Retirements open up a whole different avenue of change. Who will take their place — as if that were possible? Will we choose the right person for their responsibility? Will they adapt and be effective?

Time will tell. Our part is to pray and seek God’s face and put those decisions in His hands. Sounds simple, but it is hard to accomplish because of our desire to be in control.

The last year was good for California and California Southern Baptist churches. Our Convention led the Southern Baptist Convention in increased number of baptisms, saw 70 new congregations birthed, put together a revitalization process for more than 100 churches that work closely each month with a trained consultant, and began hearing from our smaller churches how we can better minister to and serve their needs.

Change is definitely in the air but it is a good thing, to be embraced and not to be feared. May each of us accept change as something that helps us grow stronger, and learn from it rather than seek to avoid it at all costs.

I can guarantee that 2020 will be filled with new challenges and we will once again look change directly in the eyes — but we will be blessed because we embrace it.

Thank you for allowing me the privilege to give leadership and serve in California. The first two-and-a-half years have been an incredible journey and now we are ready to move forward with great excitement and anticipation for what God has in store.

Join me during this amazing time with God!