Two votes

Over the next four days, two votes will take place that will, in some way, shape my immediate future. On Sunday, Richview votes on gender and leadership. Our position is that it’s possible to come to different conclusions on this issue, and that we should be okay with that. Practically, it would open positions to women that are currently closed within our structure. I’ve been pleased with the tone of the discussion. Some disagree with the direction we’ve taken, and I understand that. I heard of a respected pastor of an Alliance church in Toronto whose own mother opposed him when he led in this direction. It’s such an emotional and volatile issue. So far, everyone in our discussion has been great. But the vote’s not over yet. Then, next Tuesday, our denomination votes on the same issue. The Fellowship’s position is that women should not be pastors or elders, and there is no room for disagreement, at least in practice. This vote will be close and potentially more divisive. These votes are on my mind today, but strangely, I’m not stressed. Last year, after the Fellowship voted on this issue, I had the biggest headache of my life. This year, I’m a little more aware that God is in charge and that life in some form will go on no matter what happens. So I care, but I’m not taking it quite as personally as I have before. I’d appreciate your prayers over the next few days. I’ll let you know what happens.