When Will I Learn?

Several months ago, the main band I’d been playing with for several years began to change. Several members left, and with every member being key to the vision this was quite a blow. Not only musically, but on a friendship level it was difficult to deal with. As we adopted the new band model and band leaders dug into visions, it was hard to see how this would play out; who could fill their spots? To a certain extent in my mind, they were ideal. In the least, it was hard to see how their positions would be filled. As the new bands formed, I was somewhat frustrated at this. Seth did a great job of reminding me that God would provide, but I could not see how. O me of little faith.

This morning as I walked several blocks to the office, God’s faithfulness and provision was amazingly clear. He didn’t replace the people, because they are unique individuals, and with them we were a unique band. Instead, he did more than I imagined; he grew and changed the vision of the band. Now, when looking at the band, and realizing the changed vision God’s developed in my heart, it’s mind-blowing. The people we have in the lineup and the new vision fit beautifully. God gave the vision, and then provided the people.

When will I learn?

Why, when God has been nothing but faithful, loving and merciful, do I lack trust? What evidence has he given that would cause me to quickly doubt?
As I look back over the past six years there are several times when I thought, “What will we do? This person is leaving, and I rely on him/her so much. Are we Vintage21 Church without them?” That is nothing short of idolatry. The thing that makes us the church is Jesus Christ. No single person, founding and lead pastor Tyler Jones included, is what makes this @V21Church. I asked God to forgive my lack of trust, my replacement of him with others as the most important person. Otherwise, as Hebrews 11 and the verse below so beautifully illustrate- we’re burdened with weight.

“Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.” – Hebrews 12:1-2