Moving Day

While browsing through social media last night, someone posted on a pastor friend's page and thanked him for making their church culture "feel like home." Upon reading the comment, I think you'll agree the appropriateness of it all, considering, that earlier in day I felt led to write about home for today's post (which was brought on by a brief couple of texts with my brother, about moving)

I've moved a handful of times, both away from my hometown as well as back and although there is always a certain excitement to the process and prospect of possibilities, it truly is a tough and challenging decision. Then I consider how often pastors move. I have friends my age, that have pastored in 5 or 6 communities. Just in the past year or so, I've witnessed 5 or 6 friends go through this process, as God has called them to and placed them in ministry.

It seems like it's a different process from moving for work-related reasons, although it's the same thing. Perhaps it's the "calling" part of the equation, that seems like it would make a case for a greater level of discernment, in order to make the right decision.

For whatever reason, and maybe it's just me, moving for the purpose of ministry seems a much more intimidating decision than simply moving for a job or something career-related.

That said, for the believer, Heaven is home. We are travelers here, aliens and strangers, as the band DeGarmo & Key sings.... just passing through. When we gather at church with other Christians, it should feel like home. It should also be just as inviting for anyone who may stop by, as we extend the love and grace of Christ to a world in desperate need of Him.

Thus, pray with me, this #associatePastorTuesday in these two regards. Pray that the church culture would indeed feel like home, for the believer. While no church is perfect and without difficulty, pray the love of Christ would permeate that environment; that friendships would be cultivated and that people would be drawn closer together to Christ and closer together, through Christ. May iron sharpen iron. In addition, pray for pastors who are in the process of moving or transition. May fears and hesitations be laid to rest and that God would lead, guide and direct their steps. May their be a clarion call upon their lives as they respond obediently to what God has in store for them to accomplish and where He has opportunity to place them; to fulfill their mission on behalf of the kingdom of God.

For where two or three are gather in His name;
He is with them, in their midst.
For the glory of God
For the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

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