The church of which I am a part is going through some changes. Some of those are transitions in specific, measurable ways of doing things. Many of the changes involve a shift in focus, thus a shift in identity. Change is never easy. It's turbulent, frequently messy, and often uncomfortable. People don't always agree on everything. The territory ahead seems uncertain. Surroundings look different and atmosphere's feel different. There is an unsettled sense around us.

However, purpose often arises from that which seems to be turmoil. In the midst of it all, once in a while, I'm beginning to hear this kind of phrase: "It's an exciting time." Even in the most wearying moments, I catch myself saying, "Well, at least it's not dull."

One hundred and forty-four posts ago I started this blog with the image of a canoe or kayak trip on an Ozark river. When the river's flow thrusts you into a set of rapids, you may find yourself unsettled by the turbulence of the water. You're wondering where submerged boulders will hit you, and you're bracing against the thrust of the mainstream, heading your vessel straight for a downed sycamore. You're praying you can paddle hard enough and fast enough to avoid swamping, and you may be saying, "Why in the world did I want to do this?" Those are the experiences, though, that make for the vitality of the trip. Those are the stories you tell, and those are the stretches in the river you hope to hit again. Life is in the rapids on a float trip. It's the same in this disciple-growing mission in the Body of Christ.

I'll see you around the next bend in the river, provided neither one of us tip and swamp!