Under Construction

As we enter Vacation Bible School, our church's theme is Under Construction. It's a perspective we usually remember, yet at the same time, just as quickly forget. For all the days that we think we have all together, in an instant or a series of moments, we realize we are no where close. If we are failing to work on ourselves, is it possible that we are missing the mark of whatever we are working on outside of ourselves as well?

The local radio station still plays programming from J. Vernon McGee ministries and his Through The Bible broadcast. For the portion I heard yesterday, at one point he shared a conversation that he was having with a young pastor; who after 3 short years of ministry was just out. Out of energy. Out of ideas. Out of sermons... like he had nothing left to offer. And results, or lack thereof, were visible in his church.

In McGee's wisdom, or perhaps just his experience, he inquired as to how much time the pastor was spending in the study of the Word... as well as in the preparation of his sermon. The response?

3 and 1.

Three or so hours in the Word.
One or two hours in sermon prep.

Out of ideas? Absolutely.
Out of energy? No doubt.
Ready to be out? It's like never having stepped in?

Perhaps I'm writing to myself. I often wish I was doing more. I often look at the status and impact of this site and wonder what's missing. Perhaps, just another reminder that I'm still under construction... just as much as the young pastor in conversation with McGee. I'm humbled by this undertaking, but I can't imagine putting such little time into a pastorate and expecting great results.

And yet, so many pastors find themselves continually tending themselves to church matters that don't revolve around the study of the Word and the preparation of the sermon. So we continue to pray against burnout.

On this #youthPastorWednesday, as we are all reminded, regardless of our place, age and time in life and ministry, pray pastors would continue to place their trust in God and rely on Him alone. Though wisdom is gained by experience, may they be careful to always seek the face of God, for the direction of the church and the topic of the sermon. In times of difficulty and certainty, may we be reminded to give praise and thanks, even while unfinished; that God has not forsaken, nor neglected us. We are His, imperfect and flawed as we are.

Students of the Word.
Created in the image of God.
Being conformed to the image of Christ.
We are under construction;
Always living and learning.
By the grace and for the glory of God.

- PNC

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