All Present and Cared For

Contrary to what some may believe, pastoring is not easy.  There are numerous pitfalls and temptations.  There is the ever present temptation to take on the sins of others (Gal. 6:1).  There is the temptation to fear man (2Tim. 1:7).   There is the temptation to melancholy and discouragement (2Cor. 12:7-9).  There is the temptation to distraction (2Tim. 2:3-7). There is the temptation to get lifted up in pride and to read one’s own press clippings (1Cor. 3:4-9), and to use the ministry for personal gain (2Cor. 2:17; 3:5).  These temptations, and many others, are ever present realities.  Consequently, when you consider these temptations, the ongoing need to fight with sin in the heart, the expectations of others, and throw in what Paul says are “the daily pressures and anxiety for the church” (2Cor. 11:28), you should be able to understand why I say pastoring is not easy.

Nevertheless, though it is not easy, with the love and support of a church community sincerely desiring to know God and to live out the implications of the gospel, it can be full of heart-warming joy and heart-humbling encouragement.  This week God graciously reminded me of this truth

As you know, this week our family had to attend the unexpected funeral of a close relative (my wife’s father). He died suddenly and unexpectedly.  In times like these, things move fast and so too must be the responses to them.  To the glory of God and the joy of his people, our family at East Point Church moved into action.

Under the leadership of our elders, and the support and love of the elder’s wives, our family has once again found themselves in the blessed hands of God’s people.  As we were picked up from the airport and brought back to our home last evening, it was evident that our church family cares for us.  Our home is in better shape than when we left, and so too are our spirits.  The prayers of the saints were evident while we were away, and the service of the saints was felt when we returned.  As I looked around the house and looked at the children, I thought to myself, “All present and cared for.  Thank you God for the trials of pastoring.  And thank you for a church who knows and cares.”

During our time in Michigan, we stayed a couple of days with my brother at his home.  He has quite a few acres on which he raises horses.  It was cold and snowy, but nonetheless the horses have to be fed.  Below is a video taken by one of our daughters as she made her way to the barn (comedy!).  I love my people, but I don’t miss Michigan in the winter :).