Where Are We Going?

Where Are We Going?

It’s hard to believe that we’ve come to the end of 2024 and I suppose many of you have begun to think about your New Year’s resolutions. I’m not very fond of making resolutions because I usually find that the new year never unfolds quite the way I expected it to, either good or bad. I have to adjust my expectations accordingly. Often, we look forward to the new year because it means change is around the corner. Other times, the uncertainty of the new year leaves us feeling anxious and uneasy. And sometimes, we are both excited and nervous about what may or may not come. Incredibly, and I know this may be hard to believe, we are not the first to wrestle with this tangle of emotions.

The Israelites faced this when Moses, their leader for forty years, died and passed the mantle to Joshua. Despite God’s promises and Joshua’s proven track record, they likely wondered: Could anyone truly replace Moses? Will they still make it to the Promised Land? The disciples experienced similar fears after Jesus’ crucifixion. Their teacher, friend, and Messiah was gone. Though Jesus had spoken of his resurrection, in those dark hours between Friday and Sunday, they huddled in confusion and fear, questioning what had become of their mission. 

As we enter 2025, many of us share these same human concerns. Will this year bring success or struggle? How will we handle upcoming transitions? What does God have planned? Yet, both biblical accounts above remind us of God’s faithfulness. While we may not see the full picture, we can trust that He who guided the Israelites and turned the disciples’ sorrow into joy continues to lead us today. This Sunday, we’ll look back to see where we (the people of God) have been to know where we’re going.

Dinner Table Conversations:

Adult & Teen Table Talk:

• When have you experienced these mixed emotions about an upcoming transition? What about God or in Scripture has helped you navigate those feelings?
• Compare the Israelites’ situation with Moses/Joshua to the disciples’ experience after Jesus’ death. How were their emotional and spiritual challenges similar or different?
• As you think about major life transitions ahead (college, career, relationships), how does knowing God guided others through change affect your outlook?

Little Learners’ Table Talk:

• How do you feel when something changes, like getting a new teacher? What helps you feel better?
• The disciples were scared when Jesus went away. When do you feel scared? What makes you feel safe again?

Caleb McCaughan, Preaching Minister

Where Are We Going?