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

I enjoy those “Year in Review” sorts of articles or programs. Especially, I like the ones that look back at local weather developments through the past twelve months, as well as the major headlines. I have a friend who reviews his journal entries to recall the major memorable moments that marked the year. So, I first thought to do something similar here, but I’m really drawn more to trying to look ahead. 

In doing so, I can’t help but wonder: What would you consider “The Big Questions” that face us a church community in the next year (or two or three)? I will be talking to our new Church Council about having a town hall style meeting for just that purpose: to hear from the church body about what those Big Questions might be. Knowing what people are wondering about can help us set our collective compass in leadership. 

But I think the same sort of exercise can be good for various groups within the church, too. So, in your small group or committee or work area, consider spending some time soon asking what Big Questions are on everyone’s minds for that ministry area. 

Then, in your own life or household, consider doing the same thing. What are the Big Questions in my life or in our family that are facing us? 

It is not likely you will come up with something entirely new, but it can be helpful to hear things named out loud, write them down, keep them handy to refer to. As I write this, it strikes me, there is a place for “Year in Review”—but could it be there is even more value in “Review through the Year” as to consider how best to navigate into the future. 

Through it all, one thing is certain, “God’s faithful love endures to all generations” (Psalm 100:5). 

Let’s seek excellence as a church in 2026 and let’s… 

Keep dreamin’ God’s dreams! 
-Pastor Terry