This article was sent to me by a friend. I certainly couldn’t have said it better myself.
The walk out.
Everyone in ministry knows the feeling.
Every Sunday.
The sound is off and the lights are down, and the flock has gone to get lunch with their family and friends.
Empty. Having poured out all physically, spiritually, emotionally.
Not sure if the sermon worked.
Questioning the worship.
Wondering about the distractions.
Remembering all that did not go right.
Praying someone got help, instruction, encouragement or edification.
Hoping the people who sat on these pews today received something to help them navigate life this week.
Praying God’s presence meets me in my place of preparation.
Until, the next time I pour out, before the crowd leaves and it’s time again to walk out.
Shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not for shameful gain, but eagerly;
Pay careful attention to yourselves and to all the flock, in which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to care for the church of God, which he obtained with his own blood.
Give it some thought.
Gary