Sometimes a making decision can be so simple and easy that we might even call it a “no-brainer,” like the answer is so obvious that it doesn’t even require thought. Other decisions can feel so complicated, heavy, or contentious that summoning the courage to come to one conclusion becomes downright paralyzing. Sharing the decision-making process with others can carry a similar dichotomy; some decisions are easy to come by while others are only more complicated by the multitude of additional opinions, concerns, and perspectives.
Read Romans 12. Don’t worry, it’s a short chapter. Here, the Apostle Paul is encouraging the early church through their struggles to discern God’s will and vision for their future.
“Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your minds, so that you may discern what is the will of God—what is good and acceptable and perfect.” (Romans 12:2)
This Sunday, our community of faith, just like the early church in Rome, is tasked with discerning the will of God. “Should we use the land for affordable housing?” is the question before us and given the variety of considerations, the many concerns that have been raised, and the variety of perspectives represented from those who love and steward this church, this decision is hardly a “no-brainer.” Instead, God is calling us to use not only our minds but also our hearts, lungs, eyes, ears, fingers, and even our toes to consider how God’s church might make God’s vision even more real for the coming years.
I ask that you spend some time today and tomorrow, preparing yourself to be an active discerner of God’s will as a valued member of God’s church. Take time to read through the various materials that have been provided and be familiar with how the Affordable Housing Team has addressed the variety of issues such a decision raises. (Everything can be found here.) The importance of this decision can only paralyze us, if we don’t let love lead the way. Lastly, trust that God will be present with us in this deliberation. God’s presence and participation in our discernment will be confirmed as we “love one another with mutual affection; outdo one another in showing honor.”
May God’s peace find you this day. -Pastor Peter
Let us pray:
We are turning, Lord, to hear you, see you, and know you. You are merciful and kind, slow to anger, rich in blessings. With every twist and turn, lead our steps back to your grace and your mercy. Lead us in your ways of new life, forgiveness, and re-creation. We pray in the name of Christ, the one who reveals your love, Amen.