by Lt. Colonel Johanna Pook, Territorial Secretary for Program
One of the questions we are often asked when meeting new people is, “Where are you from?” or “Where do you belong?” I don’t know about you, but I often find myself unsure of what to say, as I have moved frequently since childhood.
Now, as an officer, whenever I return to the place where I grew up, people often say to me, “Oh, you’re not from here,” and I have to clarify: “Yes, I am from here! I grew up here! I belong here!”
But what’s the problem? The issue is that because I haven’t lived in that area for so long, it feels as though I no longer belong or fit in with the people I grew up with. Many of us lead nomadic lives, moving from one place to another. As we go through the natural stages of life—evolving and growing—we can’t help but encounter changes that affect our sense of belonging.
This constant change keeps us searching for places, groups, or connections where we feel we belong. But here’s the hard truth: just when we think we’ve found where we belong, changes come along, throwing us off balance. We are then left needing to recalibrate and find a sense of belonging once again.
Despite this, I am reminded of an unchanging truth: though we and our circumstances change, we serve a good God who remains the same yesterday, today, and forever. Hallelujah! This means that no matter how out of place we may feel at times, when we belong to Him, He is our solid foundation and ultimate source of belonging.
I don’t know about you, but I’m excited about what’s coming in the months ahead for our corps, divisions, and territory, including our General’s Congress, Belonging! It will provide incredible opportunities to build community, foster relationships, and create a sense of belonging.
Webster’s Dictionary defines belonging as “possession; close relationship.” Let us ensure that we cultivate a close relationship with God above all else. When we do that, everything else will fall into place—in His time and in His way.
When we gather, things may look and feel different. Our time together might be longer than usual. Some songs may be new. People may seem unfamiliar. You might even feel a bit out of place or unsettled by it all. However, don’t lose sight of this: we are God’s people, and ultimately, we belong to Him.
