Reflection
Being a pastor among you has been an immense source of joy and blessing in my life. It has marked a truly wonderful and significant chapter that I will cherish forever. Throughout my time here, I have experienced an abundance of love and acceptance, for which I am truly grateful. However, the time has come to bid farewell and embark on a new chapter, both for myself and for Bethel.
Bethel Mennonite Church holds a rich history and deep roots. Over the years, you have demonstrated a remarkable openness to embracing new people, new ideas, and new theological frameworks. Of course, this process hasn't been without its challenges, as any significant change is bound to present obstacles. Each change brings with it both losses and new opportunities. What truly matters, however, is how we engage with and navigate through these changes.
Change is an inevitable part of life.
There are certain changes that we actively pursue for our own personal growth and well-being. We readily welcome change when two simple criteria are met: (a) our desire for it, and (b) our ability to cope with it.
Conversely, change is not always welcome when neither of these criteria is met. For example, the changes brought about by the COVID pandemic, rising house prices, a struggling economy, and climate change, have been imposed on us, creating unease and, in some cases, anxiety. Such changes are outside our control and can be quite challenging to navigate.
However, it is essential to recognize that change is part of God's larger plan, and God invites us to actively participate in this process. God continuously works towards redemption and demonstrates unwavering love. Thus, faith itself necessitates change—repentance, conversion, and wholehearted commitment to discipleship.
"Do you perceive it? I am doing something new!" This question reverberates throughout the New Testament. Jesus repeatedly asks His followers, "Do you not understand? Do you not see? Do you not hear? Are you deaf and blind?" Unfortunately, the disciples often miss the signs of newness. Yet, eventually, God's transformative power takes hold, encompassing both Gentiles and Jews, women and men, slaves and free persons, all becoming part of the people of God.
In recent years, Bethel has undergone numerous changes. While these changes have undoubtedly brought some losses, they have also ushered in new opportunities and fresh perspectives on community life.
Change is inevitable.
I encourage you to embrace it as an ongoing expression of faithfulness to God's promise to "do a new thing". As you envision the future of Bethel, I implore you not to lose your passion for innovation.
I deeply appreciate your kind words of farewell, the cake at the picnic, and the beautiful pottery platters that will forever serve as a reminder of my time among you.
- Pastor Kathy Koop
