"When he saw the crowds, he had compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd." ~ Matthew 9:36
As you're reading through all your seminary notes on how to effectively minister in an upside-down, inside-out world, here are a few words of focus in the midst of the confusion.
"When genuinely hurting people call, pastors know they were ordained “for such a time as this” and move with compassion. “A man in our congregation, a sweet Southern-gentleman kind of guy about seventy years old, came down with a brain tumor about two weeks ago and died within a week,” said Steve Harris. “To be in that little room with his wife and their kids when they found out, and to have them later say ‘Thank you for being there,’— that’s when I sense I’m doing what God put me here for.”
~ Kevin A. Miller, Secrets Of Staying Power
Over the years I've wept with and prayed for families who lost their children unexpectedly, others who lost mates to suicide, and families who lost their homes and all their earthly possessions tragically. The list goes on without number, as does yours. As your ministry continues, you may be sure that unexpected tragedies will continue as well. I encourage you to count each encounter as an incredible privilege to be the heart and hand of God for broken lives... For the Lord has truly ordained you "for such a time as this" You may be confident that our Lord will give you strength and words of compassion as you do what He put you here for. Love them like Jesus my friend, love them like Jesus.
~ PJVS
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