Well Past Burnout Stage...

“He needed to take a break from ministry and the way our culture is, the culture forbids that. How much do you share? How much grace do people allow?” [furthermore...]

“It’s hard to be honest. It’s difficult for some preachers to be honest. Every pastor needs a pastor to kind of lead and guide them. But it’s hard for us to really find that relationship because often pastors are trying to compete with or cremate you. And so it’s difficult to find camaraderie.” - Dr. E. Dewey Smith Jr., senior pastor at The House of Hope Atlanta, on the suicide of Pastor Teddy Parker  **read article here: Pastor commits suicide while congregation waits

It really is amazing what we have come to in this culture. We desire authenticity and genuine communication and as soon as one replies "If you really want to know..."

No, thanks... I didn't really want to know. And the wall is built. Grace is contingent. So is forgiveness. Love comes with strings. Compliments are based on performance  Feelings towards the sermon depend on the  level of conviction we feel. Tithing, attendance, inviting neighbors and friends, one's desire to get more involved in (or withdraw from) ministry all follow suit.

I really can't get over this tragedy and stress enough, the importance of praying for pastors and churches. This is utterly unacceptable.

Pray, this #associatePastorTuesday, for all pastors, struggling with any phase of burnout, from walking away to thoughts of suicide. Pray for the miraculous power of healing and strength to fill them and combat the frustration and loneliness they face. Pray for the families affected who don't know where to turn or who to seek for help. May God be their refuge and strength during these times.

God help us... and this culture that desperately needs to return to you.

In the name of our Lord, Jesus Christ.

-PNC

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