I had a brief conversation with a man today who really encouraged me about the value of what I am about as a Christian and minister.  Sometimes I allow myself to get so involved in the mechanics of doing church, that I forget for a few moments that we are to be "about the Father's business."  I know Jesus made a custom of attending religious services, and we are to do the same.  But, Jesus most often surrounded Himself with people, and not necessarily "churchy" and religious people.  As I recall, He was sneered at for hanging out with "publicans and sinners". 

My new friend has attended our worship services a couple of times.  He sits in the back, alone, and tends to slip out of church as soon as possible.  Last Sunday I had opportunity to look more deeply into his face and eyes, and I saw someone who was searching.  Thus, today I made it a point to find him and talk with him.  He seemed surprised, and first said he was really too busy.  But I persevered with gentleness.  I found he was indeed hurting.  Our next few minutes of conversation revealed much.  He is struggling with substance abuse, has neighbors who are giving him conflicting religious guidance, and he is in the process of a search for spiritual significance.  I walked away truly liking this man.  And, I believe he is probably on the edge- his very survival in life will be determined by what he finds, or does not find, in his search.

So, I will pray for him, and love him, and seek to let him know I care as often as possible.  And I am reminded that what I am doing is the most important of jobs.  And, that's a good reminder.

What do you think?

 

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posted by: PastorDave (reply)
post date: 06.24.05 (3:04 am)

You know, Jesus's ministry was to people who are hurting and seeking. I believe that with your patience and love for this man he will be lead to the truth thru you.

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posted by: Longshot (reply)
post date: 06.24.05 (4:06 am)

Dave,
Very refreshing to read about a pastor with a sensitive heart! Two things:
1.When you post, please categorize it under religion so I'll see it. I don't want to miss any of your posts.
2.Thanks for the comment on my blog. I'm a struggling Baptist and sometimes I come across as mean. Thanks for understanding me.
3. Gotta have three points don't I? Keep up the wonderful work!

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posted by: CrimsonBlood (reply)
post date: 06.25.05 (4:58 pm)

im a christan but ive got to wonder sometimes...how do we know there is a god

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posted by: PastorDave (reply)
post date: 06.27.05 (5:54 pm)

By way of update, this gentleman returned to worship with us again Sunday. He appeared truly involved and contemplative as the service unfolded, although he did not step forward for a public commitment. On the way out, he took my hand firmly and told me he really appreciated what I had to say. You know, many church folks come by and say "Good sermon, preacher", and I am sure they grasped very little of the actual message. But, this man's response was a real boost and blessing. I am excited about the work God is doing in his heart, and am humbled that God would use me to be a small part of His work of change. Stay tuned!

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posted by: PastorDave (reply)
post date: 06.27.05 (6:07 pm)

To CrimsonBlood:

I could give you a flippant response, but I sense your question comes from a genuine search for intimacy with God. I will tell you that many times in my life He seems far away. That is why faith must be a constant for me. He loves me, and knows all about me, and I trust this as fact. It is not based upon emotions. Check your Bible about the experience of Thomas. Remember he would not believe unless he could actually see and touch the resurrected Jesus. Jesus accomodated him. Then Jesus said, "Because you have seen me, Thomas, do you now believe? Blessed and happy and to be envied are those who have never seen me and yet have believed..." (John 20:29, Amplified Bible). So, day by day, and especially in the dark times, it is a walk of faith.

Please excuse the "sermon"! I'm a fellow struggler, but maybe I've been a little help?

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posted by: mnash (reply)
post date: 07.17.05 (10:22 am)

Every believer should probably pray each Sunday morning for the chance to witness to someone, reach out to them, talk to or listen to someone, etc. instead of catching up on stories from the week with already formed friends.

Our pastor says, "You never know, the next hand you shake could end up being your best friend for life."

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posted by: mnash (reply)
post date: 07.17.05 (10:24 am)

Reply to: PastorDave
This church experience overall is probably new to this man. Took a lot of courage or "prompting" even to come thru the doors and 99% of the people in the building know what to expect once inside. Maybe explain to him how the worship service is laid out, etc.

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posted by: CBar (reply)
post date: 07.18.05 (6:59 am)

Great job! God is using you & that is awesome! I cannot imagine this guy not eventually accepting the free salvation that we all can have!

Keep up the fight!

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