The word discern, according to the dictionary, means to "perceive by the sight or some other sense or by the intellect".  We have heard the term recently at Zion in several contexts.
We have read about discernment for mainline denomination churches in our book study of Christianity for the Rest of Us as we read about churches throughout this country which have been revitalized and renewed through a process of discernment as these churches listen for God as a guide for a future direction.  Last Sunday we heard about discernment through individual and congregational prayer as we listen for God's call to us in ministry.  What should we be doing in the world?

Whether or not we realize it, at Zion, we are in a period of discernment.  We are listening for God's call to us.  We know and sense that God is still speaking.  What is God saying to us?  How is God helping us to understand what we should be doing in the world to help others and to assist each other in our transformation in Christ?  What does Love expect from us as a congregation?

Zion is changing in important and meaningful ways. Growing attendance bears testimony to this observation. You can sense this in the smiles on our faces.  You can hear it in the music.  You can hear it in the laughter.  We have a story to tell and, I think, it is a positive story.  On the Willis Junior High building on William Street these words have instructed passersby for generations; "New occasions teach new duties".  This implies growth and change and I think we have embraced that notion through a thoughtful, yet intentional, process of discernment.  It is important to note that our discernment and the resulting change has not abandoned tradition.  It is difficult to know where we are going if we don't know where we have been!  

As you pray and as you reflect upon our future at Zion, I pray that you will be listening to where you hear God calling us to travel.  I am sure that, together in community, it will be a wonderful journey.

Shalom,

Pastor Pete