TRANSCRIPT:

Hi, welcome to fiLLLed in 5 where we take 5 minutes to explore an aspect of the spiritual life. Today, we are looking at navigating change and how embracing change can fuel spiritual growth.

Life is a series of changes, each bringing its own set of challenges and opportunities. Change is inevitable. It's a constant in life that we cannot escape. Whether it's graduating from school, starting a new job, moving to a new city, or experiencing the loss of a loved one, each change marks the end of one chapter and the beginning of another. These moments can be disorienting and challenging, but they also present unique opportunities for growth and self-discovery. The key to navigating change well is to find meaning in it. 

Embracing change, rather than resisting it, allows us to adapt and find new paths forward. It's about recognizing that every ending is also a beginning, and within each beginning lies the potential for something meaningful. 

If you do one thing - I recommend this: identify your touchstones. What is foundational to you? Is it taking a walk, meeting regularly with friends, taking time to pray, meditate, or journal? Whatever it is that keeps you grounded - find a way to continue that practice, it will help you as you experience other shifts.

There’s an opportunity for personal and spiritual growth as you navigate change. Change forces you out of your comfort zone and pushes you to develop new skills, perspectives, and strengths. They are moments that challenge your resilience and test your ability to adapt. In these moments, you often discover things about yourself that you never knew existed. You learn to navigate uncertainty, to cope with loss, and to celebrate new beginnings. Growth is not always easy, but through the challenges accompanying change, you can connect more deeply with the Divine and grow inwardly. 

Seeking growth during change involves a conscious effort to reflect on your experiences and understand their significance. It's about asking yourself, "What can I learn from this experience?" and "How can this change make me a better person?" By engaging in self-reflection in prayer or meditation, you can uncover the lessons that each change offers and use them to shape your future. Reflection helps you to see change not just as a disruption, but as an opportunity for growth.

Understanding the deeper purpose behind your experiences is another crucial aspect of finding meaning in change. It’s easy to get caught up in the immediate challenges. Remember to look at the bigger picture. Every change, no matter how difficult, has a purpose in the grand tapestry of your life. It's about seeing the interconnectedness of your experiences and recognizing that each change is a part of your journey. Sometimes, it's only in hindsight that you can see how a particular change led you to where you are today.

Stay connected to your values and passions to find this deeper purpose. These arise from the core of your spirituality and are touchstones that help you navigate the darkest times. When you align your actions with your core values and pursue your passions, you create a sense of purpose and fulfillment that transcends the immediate challenges of any change. It's about finding the things that truly matter to you and letting them guide you through the changes in your life.

Finding meaning in change is about embracing the journey with all its ups and downs. It's about recognizing that change is a natural part of life and that each one brings the potential for growth. By reflecting on your experiences, seeking personal growth, and staying connected to your values, you can navigate the currents of life with a sense of purpose and meaning, while growing an ever richer connection with God. Each change becomes a stepping stone on your path, shaping you into the person you are meant to be.

I’m Melissa Ebken, the pastor of the Illiopolis and Niantic Christian churches. I developed fiLLLed spirituality groups to provide a safe place to engage your spirituality.

Links to join a group or receive an email each Friday with inspiration for your journey are in the description. Don’t forget to subscribe! Be well, be present, and be thankful. Bye for now.