This past Sunday, the congregation of Quest took a decisive and unique step that will impact our future in a profound way. A step like this is always a little ‘awkward’ as the process of making decisions is sometimes a bit complicated. In this case, the Elders presented the congregation with an opportunity; they did their homework as throughly as possible and then presented the issues as well as the facts as even handedly as they could. We did not want to tell people what to think, while at the same time, we were willing to tell people what we thought both individually and as a group. As defined by our constitution and by-laws, the decision was then put in the hands of the membership. It required a 75% affirmative vote of the members who could be present. We all recognized that unanimity was probably not realistic. We also understood that uniformity was definitely not our goal. However, unity was and is our priority. The process, though ‘awkward’, was honored by everyone involved, and as a result, we have taken a step of faith to purchase the property in Wildwood. Of course there are still a few hurdles that have to be cleared before the process is final. Those should be wrapped up in the next few weeks.
If everything works out cleanly, we will soon be mobilizing all sorts of people in the effort to prepare the property for move-in and renovations that will take us through the first lap of ministry. There will be all sorts of fun and excitement in this process. There will be many opportunities for everyone to get involved, both in the short run and in the long run. What God has provided is an adventure of seeing what He wants us to do with this ‘tool’ for ministry in and for the community. This ‘tool’ is for everyone. It is a place to nurture the lives of those in Quest and a place to invite our neighbors into relationship. We should all be dreaming of the meaningful ways we can use this property to glorify God and love people. However, let’s remember that this property is not the only location for ministry. Ministry is within arms length of where each of us stand, whether it is at 17126 Old Manchester Road, in our neighborhoods, at the grocery store, at school, at work, at the gym, or wherever we find ourselves. So, the adventure simply continues with a new ‘tool’ in our tool chest.
At the same time, there will be new challenges that come with having a property. Some of those challenges will not be easy or fun. They will bring with them potential for conflict and disagreement. But thus is life… and we can navigate those with maturity and graciousness. In the end, we trust that God has lead us to take this step of faith and that He can and will use this tool for the nourishment of us all and as a warm and inviting place for our neighbors to be included.
I am glad that this has happened for us, but even more, I am challenged to take this adventure with a heart full of God’s goodness and a love for our community. Let’s enjoy the adventure together.
Kevin