What About The Kids?

I'm thinking about the Pastor that committed suicide, that we prayed over yesterday and my heart breaks the kids. Christmas is stressful enough for how life unfolds during the holidays. Sometimes, it doesn't take much. Other times, the drama and the circumstances that pile up is just too much to handle. Then ministry kicks on.

The extra events; the extra programs and outreaches, the extra demands and requests that come in for those in need (which are higher in number simply because it is that season) .. the extra hits everyone. And the kids of those in ministry are left to watch it all play out.

Their are some professions where you expect a level of risk; a level of danger. It comes with the territory and you know if something where to happen, on the job, that was part of the gig. Pastoral ministry, by and large, save for persecution, isn't one of the professions that you would normally associate with such risk. But when a pastor commits suicide because of the demands and expectations of the calling to ministry; clearly something is out of sync.

On this #youthPastorWednesday, pray for the kids of those in ministry; that are negatively impacted by the hours and the investment their parents and family are making in other people. Pray for understanding and patience as pastors and family work to find balance between home and church. Pray that families would fortify themselves and that strong friendships and support systems would come alongside, to help carry the responsibilities and provide relief  for those struggling in the management of family and faith. Pray pastors would be strengthened and encouraged to focus on their family this holiday season; may the be refreshed and strengthened; ready for what God has in store as 2015 comes to a close and a new year around the corner.

May the faith of families be strengthened anew, ready for the calling God has placed upon them. For the glory of God!

-PNC

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