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Health & Fitness

(un)expected CHANGE

Over the weekend I visited the new Chase Bank that opened on the corner of Aviation & Artesia. The bank is set within a pre-existing building that was remodeled to house this new branch. As I watched the remodel take shape, I learned that my neighbor is actually the new branch manager. While we had discussed the location and its accessibility, it wasn’t until I stepped into the bank the first time that I understood his excitement about this “NEW” branch.

 I’m a fan of looking at existing space and re-imagining what it could be. So, I was anxious to visit this new Chase. The building is a bit modern with giant windows and straight lines. Very different from my usual branch on PCH & Artesia (built in the 60’s). I anticipated that this new branch would have an updated appeal to it. And it sure does!

When I walked in, I was greeted and pointed to the large “ATM” machines where we could deposit and withdrawal. Ya, not earth shattering, except that’s all there was. There were desks for bank meetings, but there were no tellers. I walked in, looked around, and looked again. It was then that a nice bank employee guided me through the new system and described some of the banks new functions. I found the touch screen systems easy to navigate and pretty self explanatory.

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Reaching my car after quickly wrapping up my business, I was conflicted. I realized while I like change and I like new technology, I was unprepared for it in this experience. This change, while seemingly simple, did not meet my expectation. I went away uncertain of whether I would return. (Because honestly, I like interacting with people on the other side.)

These past few days I’ve reflected back on my experience at the bank, how it relates to my everyday life and the community I’m a part of.

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You see, I’m a pastor of a church, and we sometimes do “church” a little different. Often seats get spun around and art goes up and comes down. Of course there are some things that are static, but even those have rhythm and seasons. I love change, and I love to see new ideas and expressions within the church. My hope is always for those present to be engaged in the experience. Songs, lighting, people, times, when we’re honest, change is regularly in the midst.

My first response to the change at the bank was to consider never returning. The experience was not what I was used to, it was not what I expected, it was not what I thought I wanted.

My second response : was to think about how I interact and respond to the change.

My third response : wonder what others reflect upon after experiencing church @ Beach Cities Christian Fellowship; perhaps with our unexpected setup, music, message, or way of being.

My fourth response : I visited the bank again today.

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