The Work.

By the time last night came to a close, I realized just how much I admire pastors for having the wherewithal to continue to stay engaged and persevere in matters of helping those around them who reach out in times of crisis.

Yet sadly, we once again come together to pray for burnout, which means pastors are frustrated and tired, just as I feel right now.

I don't put myself on their level, experience or understanding, for surely they are engaged at a level which not many can handle.

However, the discernment with which they must speak, the empathy that is expected of them to show, the understanding and guidance that people hope they will possess and bring to the table... ministry certainly can't be accomplished, at least not very effectively on the strength of  man alone.

The work of ministry simply astounds me.

People want the church to be around to help in times of crisis, yet want nothing to do with God when there isn't a crisis. People reject and mistrust the motives of Christians and pastors alike. Society is just moving in a ways that... I don't know.

The Christian life has it's challenges and ministry simply seems to intensify and multiply them.

My heart goes out to the those on the forefront of trying to point and compel people towards Christ and my prayers are with them.

Will you join me? On this simple #associatePastorTuesday, pray that God would continue to strengthen pastors, mentally, emotionally and physically. Pray that God would grant them wisdom and guidance in their conversations, especially in the difficult situations that people find themselves in as individuals and the larger problems facing our communities and society at large. May their resolve in reflecting and pointing others to Christ remain firm. Pray that truth would stand firm in the face of bent on saying there are no absolutes and there is absolutely no God in Heaven.

By the anointing of the Holy Spirit
And the power of God
A witness spoken.
For the glory of God.

- PNC