“It takes what it takes.” – Schnase

Wise words to apply to life in general. Recently, I was in turmoil to help my church keep up with the times. To remain relevant and fresh for those who choose to worship with us. The church I was serving was not in the Bible Belt or even in an area that is particularly thriving. It was located in a town that is depressed, drug-ridden, and fighting to come back—or maybe just to stay alive.

How does a church stay relevant in this kind of a town?

I find myself praying for God to show me how to lead well into this season. How do we reach people for Christ when people aren’t sure Christ is what they want? When soccer and hockey somehow became more important than corporate worship? When getting our own way starts standing in the way of worshipping the God who created us? How do we reach a generation whose parents hover and the kids know best? Where will this generation find comfort when life gets rocky? What will their solid rock and foundation be?

I think there is hope! I think it “takes what it takes,” and we don’t stop until we figure out what that is. As a leader I would rather try and fail then fail to try. God will open this generation’s hearts to it, but we need to ask for it in prayer. We need to seek so that we will find. As we prepare for the next generation, we need to let go, trusting God as we prepare for the next generation. So, ask the younger people in your congregation–the next generation–to sit on your boards and leadership teams. Listen to what they have to say. Listen! And don’t be afraid to change!