I think we can all agree that leaving the comfort of what we have known is difficult.
Southwest United (formerly Crawford Park United) has been a home away from home for so many years now. Even though the original members may be living in the places of our hearts, the thought of losing that home is indeed difficult to face, let alone accept.
As your Pastor, my own future uncertain, I turned to a much-loved book and wish to share with you a story of what some of you might call blind faith. But that faith is what keeps me going, especially in times of uncertainty. It has sustained me through many difficult times in my life, and I hope you too will see both the wisdom and the acceptance in what I am about to share.
Leaving the Nest*
The eagle pair had built their nest high on the mountain craigs. First they made a sturdy foundation of twigs and small branches on the bare rock. Then they worked a more finely woven layer inside. And then the mother laid her eggs, and brooded over them until they were ready to hatch.
When the tiny chicks hatched, they nestled in the warmth and the comfort of the feather-lined nest. And time passed and they grew bigger, and were ready to leave the nest and learned to fly and make their own lives.
One by one the small eagles were persuaded to leave the nest. But one was reluctant to go. The nest was so comfortable and he really wanted to live there forever.
So, the parent eagles tried to persuade him to move out. First, they removed the cosy layer of feathers. But still, he would not leave. Then, they removed the layer of fine grass and twigs. But still, he would not leave. And then, in desperation, they removed the entire outer nest, leaving him perched on the bare rock. But still, he would not fly.
And finally, they took their fledging to the edge of the high craig and pushed him off….and then they flew close below him, to catch him, lest he fall.
It has always been my belief that when we are pushed to the edge and there is nothing else to hold on to, one of two things will happen, either there will be angels to catch us, or we will be given wings and taught how to fly.**
As we face the reality that we may have to leave the safety and comfort of the nest at SouthWest, I say to you brothers and sisters, do not fear, for “he will raise you up on eagle's wings, bear you on the breath of dawn, make you to shine like the sun, and hold you in the palm of his hand”.***
Pastor Beryl, DLM
*One Hundred More Wisdom Stories, Margaret Silf
** unknown
**8 Psalm 91, VU page 808