In-Between Times 
The excitement is over. What began as an intriguing new adventure is now routine. It is just a matter of living into it...moment by moment; day by day; even year by year.
When life has become stable and steady, we find ourselves immersed in in-between times. Though we claim to yearn and strive for that proverbial 'peaceful, easy feeling', the reality of it often leaves us feeling extremely uneasy. We can get so used to the roller coaster of challenge and struggle and crisis that we may find it difficult to embrace in-between times as a gift. We may worry that something is wrong when everything is right. When there is no regular rush of emotion or moments of breathlessness we may be concerned that we are missing something. Sometimes, we can even find ourselves stirring up conflict and controversy just to feed our need for drama. But, when owned and honored, in-between times can be lovely, nurturing seasons in our lives. They are times to ponder blessing, celebrate accomplishments, and live fully into the divinely bestowed treasures of peace and harmony. Are you in an in-between time? Own it for what it is. Cherish it. It is gift. · What does it look like to be in-between?
· How might you embrace the in-between season as a time of peace and harmony that feeds your soul?
· How can you use the stability of an in-between time to prepare for the next step of the journey? |
Query for the Coach
Dear Sharon,
I know this sounds strange, but I am feeling envious of the pastor of a small, struggling church down the street from my large, program centered church. I go to our monthly Community Ministerium breakfasts and hear him talk about the challenges he is facing, and I yearn for that kind of pastoral work again. While I can count on at least 300 people in worship every Sunday, he is praying for at least 20. While my lay leadership is praying about how to spend a half- million dollar bequest, his congregation is taking an extra offering to pay his small salary. Early in my career I served a struggling congregation, and I know that I was frustrated most of the time. Back then, all I wanted was to have the privilege of being in a place that didn't have to worry about finances and could just be in ministry. But now that I am in that setting, I guess I miss the constant stream of challenges that came with being pastor in a difficult setting. Should I be considering a move back to a missional church? What kinds of questions should I be asking myself? (By the way, my husband thinks I am nuts to even consider this!). Help! To read Sharon's response go to: Query for the Coach |
