A Season of Belonging

A few weeks ago, my family took our first vacation with three children. I use the word vacation somewhat generously. I organized the trip for my husband, our three kids, my parents, my two brothers, and my brother’s spouse. There was a mountain of preparation: booking the Airbnb, planning meals, ordering groceries, packing clothes, swimsuits, toys, towels, snacks, sand toys, coolers, and everything else that comes with transporting a small army to the beach.

We loaded the car in pouring rain, making frantic trips back and forth to ensure every bag was packed and every child was buckled. When we finally pulled out of the driveway, I felt an enormous sense of relief. Unfortunately, it lasted only a few moments.

That trip reminded me of something I have come to believe: every journey has two parts—the first step, and every step after it. The first step is difficult because it requires us to leave what is familiar. But every step that follows demands perseverance, trust, and faithfulness.

Genesis 12 marks the first step in God’s great plan of redemption. The first eleven chapters of Genesis tell the story of a world repeatedly losing its way. Creation gives way to rebellion. Hope gives way to violence. The flood reveals humanity’s brokenness. Babel reveals humanity’s pride. Dream after dream falls apart.

Then God calls Abram. “Go from your country and your kindred and your father’s house to the land that I will show you.” With those words, a new story begins. Abram is asked to leave behind everything that provides security and stability. He is not given a detailed map. He is not told exactly where he is going. Instead, God offers a promise and asks Abram to trust enough to take the first step. What makes Abram remarkable is not who he was, but that he went.

After generations of curses, God promises blessing. After humanity scatters, God gathers one family and commissions them to become a blessing for all families of the earth. God’s purpose has always been larger than a single individual or community. Blessing is meant to flow outward. That same pattern continues today.

Over the years, Northbrook has taken faithful first steps of its own. Previous generations discerned the need to raise resources, reduce debt, and invest in ministries not yet imagined. Those decisions led to the Beyond Fund, the merger with Christ United Methodist Church, and opportunities to share significant resources with the wider community. Because others responded faithfully to God’s call, we are able to bless our neighbors today.

As we move through the remainder of this year, we will be focusing on our theme, A Season of Belonging. We are creating new opportunities to welcome people, deepen connections, and ensure everyone can find a meaningful place at the table. In a world increasingly marked by division and isolation, Northbrook is called to embody a different way—a community shaped by grace, hospitality, forgiveness, and love.

I believe God has blessed this congregation with stability, resilience, and beloved community for a reason. Like Abram, we are called not simply to receive blessings, but to become a blessing. We are heirs of the promise and participants in God’s ongoing journey of restoration.

The first step is never easy. But it is always worthwhile when God is the one calling us forward.
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Grace and peace,
Rev. Kena Newkirk, Associate Pastor
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