“Neither as being lords over God’s heritage, but being examples to the flock” (1 Peter 5:3).
“I can’t tell you what to do, Ken, but since you have asked me about your ministry, I have to ask you, do you view yourself as a shepherd or do you view yourself as a CEO of the local church?” Victor asked. It was an incredibly uncomfortable and awkward situation into which Vic had walked. He had simply stopped at the fast food for a black coffee. Ken and a deacon had been sitting at the table across the dining room, and lo and behold, the deacon motioned for Victor to come and join them. “Our church is in trouble, Victor. I know you are a pastor across town. Talk with my pastor and ask him what’s happening.” Victor refused, smiled, thanked the deacon for the invitation, and tried walking away, but Ken called to him, “Vic, if you have a couple of minutes, I would like you to join us and give me an honest opinion about my ministry style.” AWKWARD in every sense of the word. We will continue the conversation tomorrow, but this is a good time to pray for your pastor, and if you are a pastor, a good time to talk with the Lord about your shepherding ministry.
For today: Pastors who truly function as a pastor are a great gift to the local church.