Changes

Change. That single word capable of eliciting a variety of emotions - something unwelcome or that we're not fond of, something that is desired or needed at times, or something surprising or overwhelming. However, no matter what mental image that word conjures up for you, there are a few things we can't change, and one of them is that things change. As you may be aware, there will be some changes in the near future for Central Seminary and WCTS.

First, to address a change for the seminary. For those who may be unaware, WCTS is a ministry of Central Baptist Theological Seminary of Minneapolis, Minnesota, so a change in leadership there also affects the station. Therefore, I'd like to welcome the soon-to-be new president of Central Seminary, Dr. Samuel Horn. You might already acquainted with Dr. Horn if you tune in to the Sunday afternoon programming and have had the pleasure of hearing him on Word for Life. Personally, I have been blessed many times when I have tuned in to that program, so if you haven't had such a pleasure, I'd recommend you do so. It also means that I am absolutely delighted that the Lord has directed him here to fill the roll from which Dr. Bauder is stepping down. If you'd like to know more about Central's new president, you can find it on the seminary's website here.

And in regard to some changes that will be happening in the near future for WCTS, I'd like to address a few things that you may have already heard on the air. Two dear friends are leaving the station this summer. John Goetz has been the afternoon host for 20+ years, and Kimball Cummings has been the general manager for 4 years. They have both been so instrumental in the years they've been here - contributing their time, talents, and efforts in the individual ways God has blessed them. And yet, the Lord is now calling both of them on to new things, some of which He may not have fully revealed to them even yet. I feel so blessed to know them, that the Lord has allowed our paths to cross. There is no real way to say all of what their friendships have come to mean to me as I have had the opportunity to work with them, but I would like to dedicate a few words to them... just a few things that make me smile.

John, the Packer fan with whom I, being the dedicated Vikings fan that I am, so enjoy the banter - trading stats, scores, rankings, and the like. As I came down to the station from sharathon to sharathon and a few times in between, the friendship offered went beyond the shallow depths of sports to genuine talks about our families and life's journeys. He's also a man who has a song for everything. Saying a phrase like "It's Friday" would trigger It's Friday, But Sunday's Comin', and since I have such tendencies myself, it was often to my amusement when we would think of the same song.

Kimball, a man who loved to hear from any and all listeners for their feedback. Yet it became much more as he became more acquainted with those who called in on a regular basis - he would take an interest in their lives, not just for the sake of the station but also the people themselves. He was always willing to take the time to listen to what was on your mind, especially when he had a few spare minutes, and he was ready to help in any way he could. He's helped reshape how the station comes across on the air, and I think WCTS is better for it.

It will feel different without them being there, that's for sure. But for the believer, a thing like this is never truly goodbye. So while we will miss them and their unique presences on the air, we can pray for them and know the Lord has a plan for everything. Thus, we can also look forward to the things that are before us, and even the changes it will bring.

So, John and Kimball, take care and enjoy the things the Lord has in store for you! Oh, and do know, that as I think of you, I'll also remember to pray for you.