I am so blessed

Last night at our evening service, I shared with the congregation that this had been a rough week.  I told them about the struggles that I had faced and some decisions that I had made, especially the decision that, at this time, I will not be seeking an M.Div. and that I was abandoning my goal of becoming an Elder in Full Connection in the UMC.  I declared that God had called me to be a local pastor and that I was going to be the best local pastor that I can be, with God’s help.  

Following our weekly communion and before dismissal, my certified lay speaker said this, “Friends, James 5:13-16 tells us that if any among us are suffering or sick that we should call the elders and they should be annointed with oil and prayed for.  Our pastor isn’t physically ill, but he is heart sick.  We need to lay hands on him and pray for his healing.”  I knelt at the chancel rail.   As he annointed me with oil and as the congregation laid their hands upon me as they prayed, I could feel the warmth and the love of this group  surge through my body as the tears poured from my eyes.  At the conclusion of this prayer for me, there was not a dry eye in the group as we shared hugs and encouragement with one another.  We could all say “Surely the presence of the Lord is in this place.”

I am so blessed to be part of this congregation that has loved me in spite of myself.  My family and I thank God for them continually.  I pray that God will continue to lead me toward growth in my gifts and graces as a pastor and that in all things, I will serve Him.