A Moment With Pastor Fred

“Change is constant—so is the mission.” This motto is used by the Marines to inspire adaptability without abandoning its purpose. I love it. It also captures the pastoral challenge of holding fast to timeless truths while engaging in timely ministry. Local church ministry in 2025 is different than 1965 or even 1995!

Think about the changes that have happened in culture in technology or politics. Nobody is truly unchanged by the changes all around us. Change is and will happen. The big question—how will we respond to the changes we experience? In less than two months, Anthony Lange will join our pastoral team. I believe I speak for all of us – we’re excited about the Langes coming! Anthony’s arrival will mean change though. Unfortunately, some churches equate change with compromise. They are frozen in time – equating their cultural mindset to biblical truth. Eventually this leads to isolation, stagnation and then extinction. Without violating biblical truth, we must adapt – this takes prayer and wisdom. HBC has been very flexible in these areas while resting in the truths that will never change. As always, leadership will continue to walk slowly, thoughtfully, and biblically through change.

With culture’s swirling changes around us it is refreshing to say that God never changes. Jesus Christ, the same yesterday, today and forever, Heb 13:8. God remains unmoved by all the change. Rest in him. Allow your soul to experience his calmness in a world of change. 1 Cor 15:58, Therefore, dear brothers, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.