Push & Pull part 2

Since posting part 1 (which at the time I didn't think about as part 1), a friend sent a copy of an on-line devotional, this edition dealing with how to handle change. I thought it was pretty insightful, and so I post it here as is, with no further comment.

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“And no one pours new wine into old wineskins. If he does, the wine will burst the skins, and both the wine and the wineskins will be ruined. No, he pours new wine into new wineskins." Mark 2:22


Managing Change

Today’s passage and key verse remind us that we really can’t move onto something new without letting go of what is old. As we are in a new year, many of us think about change. And for many people facing difficult financial or relationship situations, change is upon them – some of the old is gone and it’s time to face the new.

William Bridges, in his book, Managing Transitions, has a few tips as we navigate through times of change. He would characterize times of change as a time of loss. Even good changes mean something from the past is lost. In fact, Anatole France, a French writer, puts it this way, “All changes, even the most longed for, have their melancholy; for what we leave behind is part of ourselves; we must die to one life before we can enter into another.”

When we recognize that change can signify loss, Bridges gives a few pieces of advice:

*Identify what you are losing or what has been lost – be specific

*Accept the reality and importance of losses, even subjective ones

*Don’t be surprised at emotional “over reaction” during this time

*Acknowledge the loss openly

*Take a piece of the “old” way with you if possible



I’ve always liked Marilyn Ferguson’s quote as it applies to this subject - “It’s not so much that we’re afraid of change or so in love with the old ways, but it’s that place in between that we fear ....It’s like being between trapezes. It’s Linus when his blanket is in the dryer. There’s nothing to hold on to.” Isn’t that so true!

As we go through times of change as followers of Christ, know that you are never alone and you always have hope. In fact, a final tip from Bridges states “know that endings can help us focus on what really matters.” 

For Christians, jobs may end, human relationships may be different, financial balances may decline, but as we follow Christ, what matters is that we love Him and turn to Him for our hope.


Reflection

Is God pouring new wine into new wineskins for you? Are you facing a time of change and transition? Review some of the observations of William Bridges and see which ones are true for you. Then talk to God and tell Him exactly how you feel. Meditate on Deuteronomy 31:8 – “The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged."



Today’s Devotional was written by Cathy Bergland for Woodridge Church, Copyright 2009