Dr. Terry Koehn: I Can't Help But Wonder

I will admit, I’m a big Willie Nelson fan. He turned 92 in April of this year, and I was reading of something Willie supposedly said a few years back, reflecting on the span of his life. His comment went something like this, “People say we should think about what sort of world we’re leaving our grandchildren. But I have been asking, ‘What sort of world will our grandchildren leave me and Keith Richards?’” (Keith Richards, lead guitarist of The Rolling Stones rock band, being of similar age) It’s definitely a chuckle-worthy thought.

In all seriousness, though, it’s important to consider what we leave those who come after us. Such thoughts have fueled the “good ancestor” movement recently. (There’s a book by that title by Roman Kznaric, if you’re interested in learning more.) But the Bible has long held a future focus. Several Psalms reflect on this theme, such as the verse which says, “we will tell the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of the LORD, his power, and the wonders he has done.” (Psalm 78:4) And Paul urged the early church to take care how they built the church, spiritually speaking, by saying, “Each builder must choose with care how to build [on the foundation of Christ]…” because “the work will become visible [in the future].” (I Corinthians 3:10-13)

As we take on building projects around the church, both physical construction and spiritual adventures, I’m reminded of one congregation years ago that decided they needed to replace their front steps. The stones had become worn, rounded off on the front edge and were a bit of a hazard. After discussion, they decided a cost-cutting move would be to take up the stones and turn them over, presenting a fresh side. Upon taking them loose, they discovered the leaders of the church years before had hit on the same idea—so, rather than crisp edges underneath, they found the same wear and tear on the other side!

One way or another, what we do now will reveal itself to future generations. I can’t help but wonder: Will we give them plenty to work with as they serve their day?

Let’s keep asking together, “What is God calling us to do next?” And let’s:

Keep dreamin’ God’s dreams for the church and the world.

Pastor Terry