Ministry Challenges:
A Tale of Two Cities
Bob Mason: on the road between Modesto and McKinleyville, CAIt is the best of times; it is the worst of times. Elation
and frustration are bedfellows in my crazy world. I am exhilarated by the fresh
winds of my new pastorate, and frustrated because I am anchored in my old town
by a house whose value has sunk incredibly. In my new parish, almost seven
hours' voyage away, a house that accommodates my family eludes me.
The signs of God's leading were evident: the
congregation's unanimous vote calling us, the shared vision for caring
ministry, even a "fleece" or two. Since my inauguration, the momentum for expanding our church's
impact has been incredible! In five months I've already had the pleasure
of several baptisms resulting from God's work through the church family.
My family is experiencing this with me: the joy, the
frustration - much frustration. My wife and I have been dreaming
ministry ideas for this university town, even while rehashing whether this
is God's will or just my personal fantasy of going back to the
beautiful area of my upbringing.
Our children love the people, the excitement, and the new
area, but also exhibit signs of the stress of our unsettled lives.
New church friends affirm God's leading and pile on prayer support. Old friends pray too, and provide words for thoughts that
lurk in our minds: "Don't you think God's trying to show you
something with this housing problem?" "Do you think this might be a
huge mistake?" "You didn't have to go."
What keeps me centered and peaceful (most of the time)?
- God's promises-"He shall
direct thy paths," "you shall hear a voice behind you,"
"all these things will be added unto you."
- God's grace and wisdom - He has a
track record of faithfulness with people, doing great things, even when we do
misunderstand His leading or even rebel.
- The history of people who trusted God in crazy
times - stepping into a river at flood stage, fighting armies with
choirs - acts that don't make sense by any human measure.
- God has provided despite the price of
gas.
I don't know how much longer ours will be a tale of
two cities, but I do know that with trust in God, these elements of comedy,
tragedy, drama, and farce, will blend into one triumphant epic.
Have you experienced a similar ministry challenge? Write Bob some encouragement at pbobmason@sbcglobal.net.
