A Word from Your Mission Strategist, Steve Laughman
Two steps forward, one step back. That might make sense on the dance floor, but it can be frustrating when you are trying to lead a group of people. As so many things become more uncertain, pastors are doing their absolute best to follow God’s lead as they lead the church.
Let me take a moment to speak to those of you who make up the majority of the church. You’re not the pastor or a staff member. Your name may not be printed on a sign or in the bulletin. But you do your part to pray, serve, and participate in God’s work in your local church. You have watched services online, even when it was a bit strange at first. You grieved the loss of fellowship with your Sunday School class. You may have even been able to return to in-person gathering for worship but questioned whether it was the smartest thing to do.
Let me say this to you: Thank you for loving your pastor and his family. He and the other leaders of your church are struggling just like you are. They are questioning the wisdom of every decision, trying to discern how to minister best to you. They crave worship like you do. They mourn over having to step back plans to reopen when the state of things change rapidly. They see how vital ministries have been put on hold and long for a day when they can begin again. Your pastor feels your pain more than you know. He bears your burdens even when you don’t notice. So, thank you for extending some grace to him as he seeks to follow God down this uncertain path.
There are so many things we could debate, and very often we do. Our world loves to draw lines in the sand and tell you to take a side. The election cycle elevates this tendency to ridiculous levels. This often leads to situations where church leaders are criticized no matter what decision they make. I trust your pastor and other church leaders to act in your best interest. Remember that they love you, and they love the Lord. Reserve judgement and assume they have stayed up late and risen early to pray over what actions to take.
August 3-9 has been set aside as a time to pray and fast for our state. Details can be found at gabaptist.org/prayerweek. Our region of Georgia has been asked specifically to fast on Wednesday, August 5. I would encourage you to lift up your pastor and other church leaders during this time. And if you are so inclined, take a moment to contact your pastor and let him know how much you appreciate him.
