Worker bees....

Pastors struggle with mental illness, especially depression, at a high rate.  They take on the problems and cares of their parish, absorb the blows associated with any job, uplift others without thought for their own needs, and frequently fail to address the issues that are boiling within for fear that once the door is open, they won't be able to close it again.  It is a gift to be a pastor, to be entrusted with the most sacred of moments in the life of a parish.  But it is also a great burden, too often borne alone.

In 1 Thessalonians 5: 12-13, we read;

"Now we ask you, brothers and sisters, to acknowledge those who work hard among you, who care for you in the Lord and who admonish you.  Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work.  Live in peace with each other.

This is a difficult time to be a pastor.  There is much confusion and disagreement over right and wrong, what we should do about the various issues of the day, how we support those in need while continuing to uphold the values we believe in.  Not only do pastors face difficult decisions within their own parish, they also face a constant barrage of criticism online and on social media.  It must be overwhelming, and you have to be a strong person to face the daily struggle.

I am thankful for all those who take on that hard task, who faithfully shepherd their flock, who live their best life to God's highest calling, and who sacrifice their family time, their minds and hearts, their physical safety, their everything to serve the rest of us.  It is a gift of the spirit.  Wishing each pastor (and missionary and lay worker) God's peace, and the knowledge that grace is ever present and his mercy is eternal.