Preparing For Transition: Easter to Pentecost Devotional #33

Teach us to number our days that we may gain a heart of wisdom. Psalm 90:12 [Sunrise photo May 3 2013]

Day 33 Preparing For Transition

After his death, he presented himself alive to them in many different settings over a period of forty days. In face-to-face meetings, he talked to them about things concerning the kingdom of God. As they met and ate meals together, he told them … Acts 1:2 (MSG)

The ascension will be here on Day 40, and Jesus will literally leave the scene.

Jesus was intentional about passing his mission on to his disciples, who were in turn to pass it on to others, and so on.

Nothing lasts forever in the natural world. The Jesus story affirms this. Even as the resurrected Lord, He knew He would be physically present for just 40 days.

Time is limited for all of us. If you’re a leader (take a hint: worship leaders and pastors!) begin with the end in mind.

What would be the most empowering way to transition your mantle of leadership to the one following you? You have to prepare yourself, your successor and your people.

I’ve seen and experienced both good transitions and not-so-good transitions in leadership.

The good ones are purposeful, honorable and celebratory. The bad ones are awkward, not-well-thought-out, and painful.

Sometimes they’ve been a mixture of both.  Messy comes with the territory. Be gracious.

Jesus knew he had 33 years to walk the planet, 3 years to do ministry, and 40 days to finish the job.

He was on a deadline.

Lord, teach us to number our days.

Let’s Pray:

I invite you to pray with me.

“Lord teach me to number my days, that I may gain a heart of wisdom (Psalm 90:12). Help me to empower those following me. Purify my heart and the work of my hands.  Help to pass on only what is good and noble.  In the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit, Amen.”

About This Devotional Series

According to the historical church calendar, the Easter season is the 50 day period from Resurrection Sunday to Pentecost Sunday.  I’ll post a fresh devotional thought with my sunrise photo of that morning, everyday through Pentecost, commenting as the Spirit inspires. Check out the rest of the series here.

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