Scheduling Issues

I spent an hour and 15 minutes on the phone with tech support last night. Surprisingly enough, even though I knew it had been a long phone call, I didn't realize the minutes had racked up that much by the time we had ended the call.

Of course, it wasn't until a few moments later, that I considered a similar time commitment that takes place daily in the life of a pastor. Whether a senior pastor of a small church who has his hands on the pulse of nearly every aspect of ministry or a larger church with multiple associates who are helping to carry the load, it doesn't take but a handful of people over the course of office hours and even after hours, asking for an hour of Pastor's time until a big chunk of the day has disappeared.

No doubt, an overwhelming majority or nearly most are significant, legitimate issues and situations that need to be dealt with or that people need help in navigating; whether it relate to church matters or congregation matters. At least we hope their days aren't flooded with seemingly insignificant problems. But inevitably, even those arise and make it to the top without explanation.

Be that as it may, every life counts. Everyone's time is valuable. Yet organizing one's day and sticking to one's calendar is daunting for all of us, especially when the amount of help is accounted for in relationship to the amount and depth of responsibilities. Add to the equation, family, normal life, emergency circumstances and ministry obligations that may exist outside of the church and it's a full schedule. I stand amazed at how they pull it off; I have enough trouble with my schedule.

Then again, the burnout rate in ministry is ridiculous. And I stand heart-broken, for the many that don't handle scheduling and responsibilities well, both of life and ministry.

On that note, let's pray this #seniorPastorMonday for those overwhelmed by the scheduling and balancing of schedules, life and ministry. Pray that God would bring calm to their lives in the place of the anxiety and worry that may be consuming their minds and spirits. Pray for a clarity of sight and vision; to know how to be plan their day and organize their responsibilities. May God bring a balance to every part of their being and every relationship in their life. Pray for those who would come alongside to speak into their life, to help carry the load and give insight and strategy as to what improvements could be made and how to implement them. May God quicken and strengthen every fiber of their being, even this day, as they commit themselves afresh and rely on Him anew, to fulfill His plans and purposes in their lives.

With no regards of yesterday
And no fear of tomorrow.
Wholly focused on what God has for them today.
For each day has enough trouble of its' own.
And we walk with God
In the confidence of Christ
And the power of the Holy Spirit.
Now and forevermore.

- PNC