“And all dared to brave unknown terrors, to do mighty deeds, to boldly split infinitives that no man had split before–and thus was the Empire forged.”
― Douglas Adams, The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy
One of my responsibilities as an Administrative Bishop is to help churches during pastoral transitions when their current pastor moves to a different church or retires.
When calling prospective pastors I often start the conversation with: “Its the job of a Bishop to make preachers pray.” We both chuckle and then – usually entirely unexpected – I ask them to pray about the possibility of uprooting their families and all that is familiar and move to a new town and a new church.
It’s the job of a Bishop to make preachers pray.
As we conclude the call there’s usually no chuckling…serious business that.
My motivation really and truly is to make them pray and reexamine their life and ministry and motives.
Its easy to get settled in and comfortable. One day looks pretty much like the next and one Sunday blurs into the next Sunday and then the next Sunday and one day years and decades have passed and just like that you’re running out time to achieve your hopes and dreams.
Everyone I call doesn’t decide to move; I don’t expect them to. But I know they need the exercise – the shock to the system that is often a wake up call to remind them that they don’t have forever to get done what they hope to get done with their life and ministry.
And that’s a good thing.
*****
What about you?
What if you got an expected call from someone you trust and they started the conversation with: “I’ve got an opportunity I want you to pray about.”
Everyone doesn’t get called to move across the country or the state, but what if you did?
Could you? Would you?
If not, why not?
But what if that call was about an opportunity right where you are to do more, be more, give more.
Would you accept?
If not, why not?
The ONE THING for today: Every opportunity is not for you, but it is important to know why.
The ONE THING 
Another thought provoking post! Thank you. Not only am I consistently reading your posts, but the Holy Spirit is helping me to apply these principles in my life and ministry. Staying one step ahead, instead of lagging behind (playing catch-up), is a wonderful way to live as we all follow our Lord Christ. Grateful.
LikeLike
Kevin, comment brought me much joy. The last word in your comment sums up my feelings – “Grateful.” I am grateful that my blogs are making a difference for you. Warmest regards, david
LikeLike
“But what if that call was about an opportunity right where you are to do more, be more, give more?”
Sometimes, this is the hardest “move” to make! (At least I have found this so in my life!)
LikeLiked by 1 person
Good point! The is a huge difference between running from problems and running toward a new challenge God has given you.
And as your recent lesson from Psalm1, fruitfulness eventually requires being planted somewhere.
It all goes back to living a balanced life.
LikeLike