Nazarene Theological Seminary

After a three day boycott I am finally willing to look at my computer screen again.  Between sermon writing, church planning, and two 4,000 word finals last week I almost vowed never to look at my laptop again.  Like it has been with most semesters I am thrilled that this one is over!  But, like it has been with most semesters, as torturous as it seemed during the 14 weeks of endless reading, time-consuming assignments, and what felt like thousands upon thousands of blackboard postings, I realize it was completely worth the effort.

This weekend I experienced my first real crisis of full-time ministry.  On top of the stress of a week of finals, preparation for our children’s Christmas musical this Sunday, and a few other things of which I will spare you the details, I was informed that a number of teens in the youth group were unhappy with me.  Although I eventually found out that the actual issue had more to do one particular teen plus a general complaint having to do with wrapping gifts vs. not wrapping gifts for our Christmas party, the initial shock hit me pretty hard.  My feelings were hurt deeply.  I felt not only unappreciated but more strongly that perhaps I was unequipped for the job – maybe even for the ministry in general! 

But it wasn’t long before I came to my senses and began the work of reconciliation.  As difficult as it was I confronted those who were said to have complaints.  I admitted my own faults and the validity of their concerns.  And quickly the tension and drama fizzled. 

Looking back I am grateful for all those afternoons of sitting in SME groups, sharing about ministry experiences and frustrations.  Those practical discussions combined with the real and meaningful teaching of biblical classes such as 1 and 2 Thessalonians, which just this semester challenged me to be a minister of the gospel like Paul who said to the church, “So deeply do we care for you that we are determined to share with you not only the gospel of God but also our own selves, because you have become very dear to us,” have prepared me to be able to function in the difficult reality of pastoral ministry. 

Following the resolution of this crisis was the actual performance of our kid’s Christmas musical, during which the children sang with joyful hearts about our Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.