Understanding a Pastor’s Heart

This has been one of those weeks where I’ve dealt with a little bit of everything imaginable. As a pastor, I’m used to carrying heavy things on my plate and on my heart. It usually takes a lot to exceed my normal weeks of ministry, but this week has been extra full of crisis, tears, and self-reflection.

With my health limitations, I’m just grateful God can still use me. There was definitely a time when that felt impossible. But God has reduced my pain tremendously since my first lower-back Rhizotomy. It’s only been 16 days since my procedure, and every day brings a little more relief.

For so many years, I felt overwhelmed by everything God called me to do. Yet I’m realizing more and more just how blessed I am to be a pastor. No matter the sacrifice, it’s always worth it. Seeing people find Jesus excites me more than ever. Helping others in their lowest valleys is still a privilege. Being a pastor is an overwhelming calling every single day, but knowing you can make an eternal impact makes it a blessing beyond words.

Yesterday, we said an earthly goodbye to the first pastor who ever hired me. He was so special and so pivotal in my ministry. During his entire funeral I couldn’t stop weeping. My heart was pounding. My soul was stirred. God reminded me of why I surrendered my life to the ministry over 32 years ago.

Being a pastor isn’t just about working for God but letting God work through you. It’s not about your will, but His divine plan. It’s not about the weight it brings, but the difference it makes in the lives of others.

God willing, I will continue to pastor for many years to come. I’m genuinely trying to let Jesus take the wheel completely. I want to walk with courageous faith the rest of my life. I want to see miracles that only God can get the credit and glory. I want to stay faithful to my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, until the day He calls me home.

Ministry is more complicated than ever because society is more complicated than ever. But we can’t let that stop us from sharing the good news that Jesus still saves souls and still changes lives. If people won’t come to us, then we must go to them. People are hurting and lost in every direction. Let’s love them like Jesus loves us. Let’s show them by example how to live for Christ. Let’s lead them to the cross as we take up our cross daily.

“Then Jesus said to them all: ‘Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.’”
Luke 9:23 (NIV)