“There is a time for everything.” That is the theme of Ecclesiastes 3. Many of us know these words from the Byrds’ 1965 song, “Turn! Turn! Turn!” Pete Seeger wrote the lyrics, but the Byrds made it popular. Other artists who recorded it include Judy Collins and Dolly Parton.
The song reflected significant changes taking place in the culture. A generation rose up against the Vietnam War. The Civil Rights Movement was gaining momentum. Music was changing, with screaming teens (girls?) responding to the Beatles, Beach Boys, and Rolling Stones. The National Endowment for the Arts supported creative endeavors. Television had replaced radio. News media began to dominate the airwaves. This was an era of the second wave of women’s rights—advocating for equal pay in the workplace, reproductive rights, and challenges to traditional gender roles. Free love also challenged traditional mores surrounding sexuality.
Every generation faces changes that can be challenging or beneficial. Easter represents a significant shift in its time. During Holy Week, at the Lord’s Supper, Jesus said, “This cup is the new covenant.” Previously, He stated, “Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them, but to fulfill them.” His Easter resurrection meant hope and salvation not only for the Jews but also for the Gentiles. He was bringing change that ultimately carried the Gospel from Israel to the entire Roman Empire.
First Presbyterian Church has seen more than its share of changes. These changes can be traced to many factors, including shifts in culture. Regretfully, Whitesboro Presbyterian Church closed, and First Presbyterian Church in Utica had to sell its building. Worship styles have evolved, including their level of formality and the genres of music. The focus has transitioned from children and families to serving a more senior population. This is not right or wrong, but reflects efforts to adapt to the culture. Pastoral transitions also bring change. “There is a time for everything” (Ecclesiastes 3:1–14).
What’s next? Where is God leading us as a church in faithful service to one another and the community? We now enter the Easter season, when the disciples spent time in prayer, waiting for the gift Jesus promised. That promise was fulfilled at Pentecost. Will you pray with me that the Spirit of God would empower us to be bold and courageous in the direction God is calling us to go and what God is calling us to do next?
Let us pray…
Pastor George