Several years back,
a meeting with the Bishop was deteriorating fast, and my pastoral career was on
a downward spiral. I had several biblical reasons for disagreeing with him, the
most important one involved my family responsibilities. He proceeded to lecture
me about how “all of us had seen tough economic times” and I would simply “need
to suck it up and be faithful.”
Being a southern boy, raised in the Bible belt, I knew about respect for those over me in the Lord and usually submitted without argument. But on this occasion, my temperament being what it is, such thoughtless inconsiderate statements were like gasoline on glowing embers.
Struggling to show
proper respect, I bluntly explained that unless the Lord provided a job, to
help with these tough economic times, I would be moving my family where one
could be found and the church would need a new pastor.
Later, in the
privacy of my prayer closet, I thoroughly vented my anger and frustration. As
the fire subsided, I yielded it all to the Lord. The Spirit of God spoke to me
from the Bishop’s point of view. His oversight responsibilities were
overwhelming too. Perhaps he didn’t know what to do either. What would I have
done and said in his position?
I began praying for
the Bishop. He was my brother and colleague. I had placed my ministry under his
oversight, so no matter how responsible my decision might be, it did not
justify any bitterness or grudges. As I prayed for him and his
responsibilities, I experienced a release of my own burdens.
I eventually had to
move my family to another city in order to find a job, but I could do it free
of malice toward the Bishop and the church. Years later, he approached me and
said that he had thought of the event several times and wondered how he could have
done things differently.
Sure, maybe more
discussion and brainstorming would have produced different decisions, on both
sides. The entire event was only a blink on the screen of life. But it was a
significant lesson in my life and ministry.
Dear Father, thank
you for those who labor among and watch for our souls. Grant grace to all those
who are in positions of leadership and responsibility. Empower us with love and
compassion for one another. I pray this in the name of Jesus. AMEN
Be strong and
courageous today with esteem and love and peace,
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