It's Still Afloat!

Just recently I visited some new folks from my church and had a great visit.  There was one thing that came up I wanted to share here that I've heard a lot that has been bothering me.  One of the folks talked about some people who once attended our church but no longer do so because they were hurt.

C’mon guys, enough of this.   If the church were perfect not a one of us could walk through the door. I told my church last week if I hear one more person tell me how they were “hurt by the church” (a phrase I’ve used myself WAY to often) I'm gonna throw up!  We’ve all been hurt, we’ve all been disappointed but we’ve all hurt someone and we’ve all disappointed someone as well.  I doubt ANY of it was totally intentional, but it happened.   If the church deserves an “F” for its behavior and performance in this generation we’re all part of the blame.  We cannot judge someone by their actions and ourselves by our intentions.  In 19 years of ministry I have failed people an immeasurable number of times.  I failed to return calls or visit the sick.  I misinterpreted what people needed when they talked to me.   I hate those failings but know I will do them again (God help me! ) because no matter how hard I try I will never be perfect.

That knowledge of my limitations MUST influence the way I receive the wounds that others place on me - intentional or otherwise.

If men drive you away from God you’re closer to them than Him.  What happened to me as a pastor almost killed me (seriously) and once I even gave up my credentials with no intent of ever pastoring again.  It was tough but I finally realized it was the Lord who called me and not men.  I won’t let them stop me.

Keep going folks, we were called to be a separate people, offer the other cheek over and over, and you all know a dozen more scripture.  Jesus said “If you love Me you will obey my commands” and if no one else follows or supports us that’s just tough luck.  Faith isn’t about our perception.

Let me finish with this, Edmund Burke is quoted as saying “All that is necessary for the triumph of evil is that good men do nothing.”  The church will never be perfect but it is the best thing afloat.  If it's messed up it needs YOU to fix it.
Thanks for taking the time to read my blog and remember, YOU ARE LOVED!