Intolerant Of The Truth

It's simply astounding how tolerance, or the lack thereof, has become the sociopolitical buzzword of the day. And on a smaller scale, in more contained units there are policies and procedures, boundaries if you will, where words, actions and attitudes are not tolerated.

We don't engage in and let go for hours on end, the misbehavior and vocalization of a kids attitude towards a parent or sibling. Management doesn't tolerate telling off the boss. Marriages don't tolerate a whole bunch of inappropriate behavior and attitudes; at least healthy marriages don't, or shouldn't. Government doesn't tolerate the breaking of federal regulation from corporations and businesses. The IRS doesn't tolerate not paying taxes.

But then we get to the bigger picture of society and culture. And the boundary lines are blurred and erased. Which is problematic enough in it's own right, until it begins to infiltrate the church. And the Christian faith, which has some pretty clearly defined boundaries, from both the Old and New Testaments and well, welcome to 2017. Perhaps at the core of the demise of many churches and of course, a primary reason for the undertaking of #pray4pastors.

As deacons and admins have a unique pulse on the heart of the church by not being in a pastoral position, so to do Associate Pastors as they directly oversee specific ministries within the church.

Now, don't read what I'm not typing. I'm all for love and grace, forgiveness and mercy. I understand not all change is immediate. I get that past experiences, relationships, family dynamics and childhood memories all contribute to the battles and struggles someone may be working through; particularly as they navigate their faith in God through Jesus Christ.

But true love speaks truth surrounded in a spirit of love.

Consider Christ. He didn't mince words. Nor was He mean or malicious about it. But not everyone responded as He would have hoped. Christ knew the heart of the rich young ruler and what stood in his way of eternal life. And he went away sad, because He couldn't handle Christ' response. People aren't always going to like the advice, counsel and wisdom that is spoken into their lives, whether from the pulpit or the pastor's office. But boundaries are for our protection and they establish opportunities for true freedom. For them to not exist and not have reminders that they exist by those who love and care for us is a dangerous place to live.

May we not be intolerant of the truth.

On that note, shall we pray? This #associatePastorTuesday, may we be about speaking the truth into peoples' lives, for we are not responsible for someone's response, nor can we control it. Pray God would grant wisdom and discernment, to help those in need work out their faith in God, despite the framework they may be navigating. May God super-naturally intervene within the body of Christ, to keep the spirit of offense at bay. Pray communication both within the church and towards the community not be filled with malice or personal intent or agendas. May the body of Christ seek to be a people that pleases God and encourages those around us to strengthen their relationship with God as well.

For eternity hangs in the balance
And the truth can wait no longer,
No matter how unpopular and problematic
It may be for the one who hears.
Lives forever changed,
By the truth that is the Word of God.
For the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

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