“Go from your country, your people and your father’s household to the land I will show you.” Genesis 12:1

On July 1, many United Methodist pastors received new appointments. They unpacked their books, and began meeting parishioners. Last Sunday they preached their first sermon, and anticipate their first potluck. Pastoral transitions are happening everywhere.

While I couldn’t find the word “transition” in any English Bible translations on my shelf, it seems to be the norm in the Bible. Consider Abraham, who faced geographical, religious and family transitions when he left his father’s house.

God Promises to Abraham, James Tissot

Geographical. God told Abraham to pack his gear and relocate. Unlike United Methodist clergy who are transitioning, he was not given a moving service (Abram likely would not have complained about the 15,000 pound limit) or a destination with a warm welcoming party. However, he could relate to the sense of being a stranger in a foreign land.  Who are my neighbors? What is there to do around here? Who are these parishioners? Where can I find a good dentist? What is the mission field like? Where do I find organic food and raw milk (while escaping the watchful eyes of the state)? Transition means adapting to new surroundings.

Theological. Abraham left everything familiar, including his religion. No more impressively built ziggurats, and no more moon gods to provide blessing and prosperity. He would now be a monotheist, worshipping an unseen God. While United Methodists share a common heritage, doctrine and structure, they have diverse opinions about political, social and theological issues. For United Methodist pastors, a new appointment doesn’t require changing religions, but it often requires seeing things from other points on the theological spectrum.

Family. Abraham didn’t have any children when he left Haran, but he did leave with his father’s household, his wife, his servants and his nephew. The transition affected them as well. Abraham likely had strong family ties that were severed when he left town. Transitions can be challenging for clergy families. Churches can become like extended family to pastors, their spouses and their children. While United Methodist clergy are excited about their new opportunities, they also experience the grief of saying goodbye to family members.

As disciples of Jesus Christ, we are called to give up everything in this world with which we’ve grown comfortable, including our expectations of this world. Like Abraham, we sometimes have to leave the familiar in order to go where God sends us.  We’re not told that God let Abraham know where he was going. God just told Abraham he would travel with him and bless him.