As for the Future

Contributed by Malcolm Sinclair

We are guaranteed nothing that will automatically ensure our congregational survival. Great churches, as great nations, pass through the life cycle of growth, decline, transformation and renewal. Much of our faith depends on the people around us in our neighbourhoods and our city. Their attitudes to the questions of God, faith, the quality of human relationships and organized religion will influence our strength and effectiveness. Our own responses to social change will also play a part. If our fear is greater than our flexibility and our resistance stronger than our wisdom, we shall doubtless find life difficult. That is why the images we hold before us are crucial. Around us all are the hands of God, holding us through years of want and plenty. Over us all is the spirit of God, moving through society as a freshening breeze. And before us is the life, death and resurrection of Jesus... the journey we all embrace, crowning faith with the victory of God. Behind us is the rich heritage of former men and women who laboured well within the vision that was theirs. We are not alone, never forget that! The tools of life and faith are in our hands, the avenues of prayer and planning both belong to us. Then let our future embrace two views: one is the personal and communal nurturing offered by rich worship and deep caring, the other is an unswerving desire to face the suffering and dysfunctions of our contemporary world, and to bring to it the love and justice of God.

The final outcome of our ministry is in God's hands. Whether we live or die, we look to God. Therefore, our labours are not in vain.

Figure 13. Dr. and Mrs. Malcolm Sinclair