I LOST MORE THAN A JOB

     In the past four years alone I’ve been a hospice chaplain to hundreds. Being by the bedside of those making an eternal transition from this life to the next has never been a job to me, but always a calling. For this reason alone, I was heart broken when I discovered I would no longer have this opportunity with hospice.

     Yes, a few months ago I had that conversation that anyone who loves their job dreads. I was suddenly informed that I would be let go because the company could not afford to keep me and the other chaplain. It was Halloween Day and I felt like I was getting a trick without a treat. I felt like someone took from me something I knew God gave me in the first place.

     Now, let me say this very quickly. I’m fine, my family is blessed, and God will take care of us. I hold no ill feelings towards anyone involved in this matter. Just because I’m a pastor doesn’t mean tough things won’t happen to me. I’m confident that many reading this article can identify with my disappointment, my struggle, and even my feelings of what next. I’ve had some time to ponder this matter and here are some things I’ve learned.

     One, who I am is not dictated by what I do. I’m still a child of God’s and able to be used by God daily. Yes, I wish things didn’t have to change, but its not the end of the world. I can still come alongside the dying, reach out to those in need, and live out my God given purpose. A job does not define you, but is simply a window God has given you for a certain season.

     Two, God is my provider. Let’s face it, in today’s world a good job is hard to find. Yet, even the best job holds no guarantees for tomorrow. If we put our stock in this world we will be disappointed every time. Over the past few months I have seen God show up and show out in my life. He pays my bills, He makes a way, and He is my soul provider. Any job I have or ever will have is simply a venue through which God provides.

     Thirdly, God is still in control. Sudden changes for any of us can rock us all to the core. In fact, if we dwell on the seeming uncertainty too long panic will set in. Job or no job, sunshine or rain, mountain or valley, God is still God. I can trust that no matter what my circumstance looks or feels like, God is still in control.

     Now, I don’t know what might be going on in your life. Maybe you’re flying high or maybe you’re going through a very tough valley. Just know that God will take care of you, He will never leave or forsake you, and He will carry you through even the most difficult times.