Word of the Week: NIMBLE
Dear Bethel,
The definition of the word “nimble” is “quick and light in movement or action.” Nimble is synonymous with words like agile, sprightly, lively, dexterous, and deft. Over the past 15 months, many people have grown fond of the term “pivot” in response to all the adaptations and changes we have navigated in the challenges of a pandemic. To reorient ourselves in this time has meant pivoting in multiple directions. At Bethel, by the grace of God, I feel we have pivoted well. We have learned and adapted along the way with each twist and turn. However, as we look at the upcoming summer months of transitioning back to a “new normal,” I have grown fond of the word “nimble.” There is a lightness to this term, and it is how I hope we collectively view the opportunities of the future. Learning how to reengage as a congregation and as a community will take time and energy. Each of you will continue to play a vital part in shaping Bethel’s ministry as it unfolds with new opportunities to be together in worship and conversation. Through the work of the Holy Spirit and your giftedness, we can remain agile, sprightly, and dexterous.
In the Apostle Paul’s second letter to the church in Corinth, he writes, “So if anyone is in Christ there is a new creation: everything old has passed away; see, everything has become new!” You can hear the excitement in these words. A nimble hope that when we are in Christ the potential for new life puts a spring in our step and a renewed vision for what is possible. As you discern your next steps in these coming months of reengagement to “new” life at Bethel, we pray that you will continue to make worship a high priority, whether online or in-person. In addition, we ask you to consider ways to reconnect with serving opportunities. We will need more people available to help us gather together again in worship, serving, and community-building. And we ask for your continued prayers as your pastors, staff, and leadership teams look for ways that Bethel can continue to live out its mission “to proclaim the Gospel, prepare our members for outreach and service, and minister to human need.” It is exciting to “see, what will become new!”
Graced by the Gospel,
Pastor Anjanette