Snapshots Of Pastoring: The One Lost Sheep
I'll call him Arnold. I met him several years ago, and we've developed a conversational friendship, although he has not been attending my church. I've figured him to be a soft-spoken guy who knows how to come across as cultured, but just beneath the surface is a lot that's untamed and probably unattractive. My church has done a good job of ministering to his little girl, the joy of his life, and this has engendered an earnest respect on his part. Arnold has led a hard life. He's a body builder, dabbled in some Ultimate Fighting, purports to do some detective work, and on the practical side makes a living with his own lawn maintenance company. He has struggled to pay bills. And he has worked hard to impress others with how very tough he is. Recently he entered into some bad activities with some very bad people and has seen his life spiral far down and out of control. And since we have made connection in the past, he was willing to contact me for help. I see in this man's heart an earnest search for something more substantial in life, almost a desperation. We've done a good bit of connecting this week. I like the guy, even as I realize in another scenario he could crush my skull! We have talked, prayed, and I've called him to let him know he is on my heart. I believe God has brought us together at this very time for a reason. I think God is going to use me to help this guy find peace and the pathway to meaningful life. And times like this leave me with humility, wondering once again why God would use me in such an important capacity. Equally I sense a great satisfaction with who I am and what I am about at this point in life.
So often I allow myself to become enveloped in the mechanics of church and the foibles of some church people, and the job becomes a drag. But loving a man like Arnold and helping him find answers brings refreshment and energy.
