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In last week’s blog, Dan Steel invited us to consider the importance of building retreat into our rhythms of soul care. (i) This week, we want to introduce you to a new resource we’ve developed to guide you in retreat day – or as we’ve called it a personal spiritual refreshment day. The theme of the refreshment day guide is ‘Resting in the love of God’. We’ve chosen this theme because the love of God is upstream of all our ministry activity. Love is foundational to who God is – and to who we are. Before we are anything else, we are the beloved of God, completely known and fiercely held in love. This truth profoundly shapes not only how we see ourselves, but also how we relate to the ministry God has called us to. We do not work for his love, but we work from his love. In the guide you’ll find: Scriptures about God’s love for you to read and meditate on Reflection questions for the start and end of the day A brief talk on resting in the love of God and questions to help you reflect and respond A short reflective piece and exercises for further reflection and response Two Spotify playlists with songs to aid your meditation and worship Tips for making the most of a retreat day You can download the guide here. We want to make this resource as accessible as possible so it is available for free, with the option to donate. Whether you use this refreshment day guide or not, we encourage you to consider how you might build a retreat into your summer. In the midst of the busyness and demands of ministry, Jesus invites us to “Come away with me to a quiet place and get some rest” (Mark 6:31). What might it look like to set aside a day, or more simply to meet with Jesus in an unhurried and undistracted way? What might he do for you and in you as you make space to be with him? (i) If you haven’t read his excellent blog post yet, here’s the link: https://www.livingleadership.org/post/time-to-retreat

Are you God? No, I didn’t think so. In his excellent book, The Imperfect Pastor , Zack Eswine highlights the need for those of us in pastoral ministry to remember this important fact. He stresses the need to be mindful of our humanity and to find joy in our limitations. However, we often kid ourselves into thinking we’re . . . Omnipresent – we seek to relate to everyone everywhere. Omnipotent – we seek to fix everyone’s problems. Omniscient – we give the impression we know everything. Of course, we are none of these things—they’re characteristics attributed to God alone. But often, we forget our humanity and try to do too much, leaving ourselves burned out, frustrated, and exhausted. If this resonates with you, I encourage you to consider going on a retreat. As busy pastors and church planters, we’re accustomed to constant activity and may find it difficult to slow down. But I’m convinced life-long, fruitful ministry is marked by rhythms of retreat and soul-care. Recently, I’ve been reflecting on how God responds to Elijah’s frailty in 1 Kings 19. (Do turn to the passage if you can.) After Elijah has experienced God’s extraordinary power, he’s threatened by Jezebel and runs for his life. God meets him in the wilderness and cares for him through his distress. Here are four takeaways from Elijah’s story to help shape our soul-care rhythms. PASTOR, YOU ARE A PHYSICAL BEING How well do you take care of your body? As Elijah heads to the wilderness, the Lord (as he always does) kindly provides what is needed. At this point, Elijah’s needs are very basic—sleep and food. Nourishment and a nap. Sometimes the best, most godly thing you can do is rest. The nineteenth century minister Robert Murray McCheyne famously said, ‘God gave me a message to deliver and a horse to ride. Alas, I have killed the horse and now I cannot deliver the message.’ His hard work didn’t make him better or more productive, it short-circuited his ministry. We would do well to hear the wisdom in his words. PASTOR, YOU ARE AN EMOTIONAL BEING I love the way God deals with Elijah on the mountain. We’ve already seen his kindness, tending to his physical needs, but did you notice God’s patience with Elijah? Elijah vents to God; he’s poured himself out in service to the Lord, but what does he have to show for it? Rather than respond in kind, God listens. He gives Elijah the space to express himself and then gently answers. You may find it difficult to express honest emotions to God, but the Bible is full of resources to help. The Psalms are a great example. As St. Athanasius once wrote, ‘All Scripture speaks to us, whereas the Psalms speak for us.’ We have been given words from God to speak to God. He knows our emotions and can handle them, as we see clearly displayed in Elijah’s story. PASTOR, YOU ARE A RELATIONAL BEING One of Elijah’s frustrations is that he feels alone. Earlier, he tells God that the Israelites ‘have rejected your covenant, torn down your altars, and put your prophets to death with the sword. I am the only one left, and now they are trying to kill me too’ (1 Kings 19.10). Many church planters I speak to feel isolated and lonely. Some are starting new churches in unreached territories where isolation is natural, while others are just too busy (or perhaps too guarded) to form friendships. God doesn’t call us to live the Christian life on our own. The apostle Paul’s letters are full of lists of co-labourers—real people—who ministered alongside Paul and others. Although Elijah felt alone, the Lord assured him that he wasn’t. PASTOR, YOU ARE A SPIRITUAL BEING As Christians, God’s presence is our greatest blessing and our greatest need. In Elijah’s story, we’ve seen God’s kindness in providing physically, emotionally, and relationally. However, the main event takes place when God speaks directly to Elijah in the ‘still, small voice’. Some translations use the phrase ‘gentle whisper’. There is something in this phrase that communicates God’s tender care for his brokenhearted prophet. Afterwards, Elijah continues to vent. He’s not finished expressing his pain, but God waits patiently for him. And then he speaks. He sends him out on mission. What has happened here? Elijah has taken time out to seek the Lord. He has poured out his worries, his fear, even his anger. The Lord has met him in a small voice, calling him, and strengthening him for the path ahead. What a retreat! And how critical it was to Elijah in preparing him for further obedience. I believe we should take note and follow in his footsteps. Taking time and space to slow down, pause, pray, reflect, listen, consider, and repent in an unhurried and guilt-free way can be transformative. It ought to be a discipline we build into our daily, monthly, and yearly rhythms of life. Being honest about our humanity and prioritising retreat is, in one sense, a sign of weakness. But in God’s kingdom, that is a good thing, as the apostle Paul reminds us. Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong. 1 Cor 12.9b-10 If you haven’t already opened the Bible to the passage in Kings, may I encourage you to do so now? As you read, ask the Lord to speak to you as he spoke to Elijah. Take time, perhaps, to ask one of the following questions. Lord, do I need to go on a retreat? Lord, as I think of my own soul-care rhythms, what do I need to learn? May the Lord bless you and keep you as you seek to serve your Lord and Saviour. To him be the glory. *For the purpose of this post we have used the word ‘pastor’. However, this post is for all those in leadership, whatever their formal title.

We are delighted to announce the appointment of Phil Sweeting as the new Chief Executive of Living Leadership Ministries, effective from 1st September. Phil has been part of the Living Leadership staff team for the last two years, and an Associate prior to that, developing our ministry in the Midlands where he has also been the Associate Pastor of Monyhull Church for the last seven years. As he transitions into this new role with Living Leadership, he brings with him a wealth of experience in ministry, with over 20 years of church-based pastoral ministry, and a passion for our vision and mission to support and equip Christian leaders and spouses for lifelong joyful ministry. Speaking of his appointment, Phil said: “I’m deeply honoured to be stepping up into this role of CEO and excited to build on the incredible foundation laid by Marcus and the team. It has been such a joy to serve alongside the staff and Associates over the last few years, and see the growing impact of this vital ministry. I am looking forward to working with our Network, partners and supporters to continue supporting Christian leaders and their spouses in joyful faith and faithful service, trusting the Lord to lead us into the opportunities ahead.” Speaking of the transition, founder and outgoing Executive Director, Marcus Honeysett said: "I am thrilled to hand the baton on to Phil. It has been a privilege to serve as the founding leader of this ministry, and I am confident that Phil is the right person to lead our wonderful team and the vital ministries of Living Leadership into its next chapter. I look forward to supporting them in my new role as Founder & President and seeing all the Lord has in store for this ministry in the future." We invite you to join us in congratulating Phil on this new role. Please pray for him as he steps into this role and for the ministry as we continue to equip and encourage Christian leaders for joyful faith and faithful service. For more information or media inquiries, please contact: Jessica Coles Communications Manager 0115 678 2139 communications@livingleadership.org

Do you like the Bible? I absolutely love it. As a follower of Jesus, I love it because it tells me of God’s love and grace towards me. As a writer, I love it, because it contains some of the most remarkable and memorable stories known to humankind. Why do certain stories resonate down the ages? Because they tap into our deepest longings and our most intense human experiences. This is why the Prodigal Son and the Good Samaritan would stand the test of time whether they were parables in the mouth of Jesus or whether they came from elsewhere. They are simply stunning examples of the power of story. But the Bible also contains some sections that raise difficulties. We can’t deny this. I call these the tricky bits. Some are not just individual passages, but a theme within Scripture that has divided Christians for centuries. Examples include . . . Baptism. The role of women. Charismatic gifts. End times theology. Creation theology. Other parts are tricky because they bump up against our current, modern sensibilities. Church members today live within a very secular culture, and they often carry the values and pre-suppositions of our culture into their own thinking. Some of these tricky bits might, therefore, include . . . Pain and suffering. Violence in the Bible. The treatment of women in the Old Testament. Israel. Sexual ethics. (Personally, I have a particular problem with the amount of polygamy in the Old Testament. For me, it’s a tricky bit.) Such is the strength of feeling over some of these issues that simply mentioning them can sometimes cause problems. Yet a church leader is called to love and serve the flock, and that includes all those who bring these tricky issues into their conversations. (Not to mention their responses to the sermons they hear.) What is a leader to do? Here are some suggestions. DON’T GO SOFT The Bible—in its original texts—is God’s revelation to humankind. It does not contain our human attempts to understand God. The moment you find yourself talking about our imperfect attempts, our ‘straining after who God is’, you will be sliding down a slope that could cost you your faith. Hyperbolic perhaps, but true. Tricky bits aren’t solved by re-working our hermeneutics. We must remain faithful to our core belief that the divinely inspired Scriptures, properly interpreted, are God’s revelation to us. On this basis, as a church leader, you need to be able to do the following. Know what you believe. Know why you believe it. Teach what you believe. Church leadership is not for the faint-hearted. It requires a level of strength and inner conviction that comes from a secure knowledge of Scripture and trust in the Lord. As Jesus says frequently, ‘Do not fear, for I am with you’. When tackling tricky bits, it’s also necessary to approach them with wisdom. So . . . DON’T SIDESTEP It’s terribly tempting to wish away a tricky bit. Or dismiss it, or generally adopt a ‘nothing to see here’ approach. This is unwise. First, if someone is struggling with a passage, and they have come to you, then it’s important to them. To dismiss the challenge or downgrade its importance is to dismiss the person. Tricky bits can represent genuine challenges to faith. A person’s relationship with Jesus may stand in jeopardy, and they have come to you with a deep question of faith. It’s your job to care for them. If you’re impatient or dismissive, then you’re not acting as a shepherd. And that’s your job. HERMENEUTICS You’ll notice that I didn’t mention ‘Bible contradictions’ above. That’s because the vast majority of the tricky bits (including most apparent contradictions) can be addressed by the proper use of context, lexical breadth (at times, words have multiple meanings), and hermeneutics. Many (but not all) challenges simply require some teaching on how to interpret the various genres in the Bible (narrative, prophecy, gospel etc). It’s really helpful, therefore, to have an entry-level book on hermeneutics ready to hand. I happen to love Gordon Fee and Douglas Stuart’s ‘How to Read the Bible for All its Worth.’ (i) Israel? Not such a problem once we learn how to interpret Old Testament narratives within the overarching flow of the whole Bible. Violence? Some teaching on the fall of humanity, God’s holiness and sovereignty, and his plan of salvation would certainly shed some light on that issue. HUMILITY It’s also tempting to talk about mystery. But here, great wisdom is necessary. Refer to mystery too soon and you may simply dismiss the person. ‘Gordon, I really have no idea about that. It’s a mystery.’ Gordon: ‘But you haven’t even discussed it with me!’ Gordon leaves deflated and annoyed. What’s the answer? Actually, it’s a pastoral one. Rather than be drawn into considerations around giving the right answer, the real issue is this: Why has this particular person raised this particular question? If you believe that your interlocutor genuinely wants to engage on a subject that is causing real problems for them, then you have an obligation to follow Peter’s advice, when he writes, ‘Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have’ (1 Pet 3.15a). If, however, you come to believe that the discussion is really just a cover for something deeper and more personal, then, with sensitivity, there is nothing wrong with probing a little deeper. Why does this particular passage bother you? How does it affect your ability to trust God? We should be happy to discuss these issues if this presents a real problem, but only when we’re content with a positive answer to the following question. Is this discussion helping or hindering this person’s walk with the Lord? Why? Because discussing tricky bits is a means by which we show that we care for people. It’s a form of love. It doesn’t matter how educated a person is, or how complex their questions, when you tackle tricky bits in the Bible with someone in your community, you do it to demonstrate your love for them. You show patience, kindness, and above all, love. It’s how you demonstrate humility. And when you do, you’ll know exactly when to confess that you don’t know the answer. You refer to mystery only after you’ve shown that you care, and that you’ve taken their questions seriously without dismissing them. Have you dealt with tricky bits recently? Yes, it’s a challenge, but it doesn’t have to be if you remember that your primary responsibility is to love those you lead. It’s often about love, isn’t it? As it should be. *Other books on hermeneutics are also available. I also recommend Encyclopedia of Bible Difficulties by Gleason L. Archer. (Zondervan. 1982)

He will come again with glory to judge the living and the dead. His kingdom will never end. Nicene Creed He will come to judge the living and the dead. Apostles’ Creed Jesus is coming back. Hallelujah! When I was a teenager, more emphasis was given to Christ’s return than it is now. Perhaps it was only in the church tradition I was part of, which had a very definite view on the details of the end times. I am not sure that was always helpful, and my own views are less concrete than they once were. Nevertheless, I look back with some measure of nostalgia. We were thinking seriously about Christ’s return, whereas nowadays, I don’t see much interest in the subject. That’s a great pity because it was clearly a subject considered important enough to include in our earliest creeds. The creedal statements tell us that Christ will one day appear in glory; he will judge all people (‘the living and the dead’). Jesus also spoke about this future event. All the tribes of the earth will mourn, and they will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory. And he will send out his angels with a loud trumpet call, and they will gather his elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other. Matt 24.31-32 When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, then he will sit on his glorious throne. Before him will be gathered all the nations, and he will separate people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. Matt 25.31-32 Power and glory; angels and a throne; the gathering of people from around the world. And judgement. This is very different from Jesus’ first coming, which was about weakness and poverty, angels and a manger, salvation, and followers scattered across the world. Only the angels make it into both lists! So, how does the prospect of Christ's return in glory, coming as a righteous judge, impact us as leaders? Judgement is coming—that should motivate us to share the gospel. When we remember that people are lost without Christ, we have every reason to be clear in how we speak about salvation in Christ. But it should also strengthen our resolve to serve Christ faithfully as leaders. The writer to the Hebrews tells us that leaders are those who ‘must give an account’ (Heb 13.17a) for how they lead. James writes in his letter that ‘we who teach will be judged more strictly’ (James 3.1b). Leaders will face Christ’s judgement. FACING JUDGEMENT Christians differ over the details of the future judgement; in particular, whether the ‘judgement seat of Christ’ referred to in 2 Corinthians 5.10 is the same as the ‘great white throne’ of Revelation 20.10. Some see two separate judgement events—the ‘judgement seat’ for believers and the ‘great white throne’ for unbelievers. Others think both believers and unbelievers will be judged at the same time. It is sufficient here simply to acknowledge that leaders will be judged. Or it may be more accurate to say that Christ will judge or ‘test’ our works. The apostle Paul describes a judgement of fire that ‘will test what sort of work each one has done’ (1 Cor 3.13). Specifically, he is concerned about what we are building into the Church, how our deeds impact God’s people. Works that are unworthy (wood, hay, and stubble) are burnt up, while works that are worthy (gold, silver, and precious stones) last. The difference between the two categories is whether the works are consistent with the foundation Paul has laid, which is Jesus Christ himself. Are our preaching and teaching—and all our acts of service—faithful to the gospel, and do they bring glory to Christ rather than to ourselves? Paul emphatically says that this judgement is not a question of the individual’s salvation. Those whose works are burned up ‘will be saved, but only as through fire’ (1 Cor 3.15). Paul also writes, ‘If the work that anyone has built on the foundation survives, he will receive a reward’ (1 Cor 3.14). This corresponds to what he writes in 2 Corinthians. We must all appear before the judgement seat of Christ, so that each one may receive what is due for what he has done in the body, whether good or evil. 2 Cor 5.10 At Christ’s judgement seat, Christians’ deeds will be evaluated. Those who claim to speak and lead in the name of Christ, and to follow after Paul and others in building on their foundation, will be judged more strictly (James 3.1b). That’s presumably because our words and actions have a greater impact on other Christians than those who don’t lead. We would do well to keep this truth constantly in mind because it motivates us to ‘take care’ (1 Cor 3.10) and ‘make it our aim to please [the Lord]” (2 Cor 5.9). It is reassuring to know that the harm done by leaders who act from self-preservation and self-promotion will not last into eternity. However, it is sobering to ask ourselves how much of our activity as leaders truly builds on the one firm foundation, which is Christ. There is nothing to fear at the judgement seat of Christ, for we will be saved. Yet we will also give an account, so we must take care and maintain focus. THRILLING FUTURE The prospect of Christ’s return should not only cause ministers to be careful. It should also thrill their hearts. In the Parable of the Talents (Matt 25), the master addresses each of his faithful servants with these words. Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!’ Matt 25.21;23 I find that statement helpful when pondering the idea of rewards for faithful service. For me, ‘reward’ conjures up images of prizes and money, as if the more faithful servants get bigger houses in heaven. But that isn’t what these words suggest at all. They indicate that there are three different aspects to the reward. First, the master commends the servant with the words, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant’. What would it be like to hear our Lord and Master say that to us on the final day? In my better moments, I think that alone would be reward enough for me. Who needs a bigger mansion if you have the approval of the master? Second, the servant is given greater responsibility. ‘You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things’. If this parable is understood as a description of how Christ will evaluate his servants, it suggests we will be assigned different degrees of responsibility in the new creation based on our service now. It makes sense to think there will be work for us in the new creation, and that what we learn now might prepare us for specific roles. Having said that, the New Testament support for this is not solid enough for me to put too much weight on the idea, so we’ll have to wait and see! Third, the faithful servant is invited to ‘enter into the joy of [his] master’. In the parable, the master has been away; he hasn’t been with the servants while they served. In its conclusion, however, he has returned and will remain present with his servants. His joy will be their joy. This generous master will share the good fruits of their service, which have emerged from their faithfulness. In the future, their relationship will be one of partnership. I think this is the greatest truth of all when we think about the return of Christ. Now we serve him although we do not see him, but then we will see him and we will be with him. As Jesus promised the disciples, ‘I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also’ (John 14.3). Whatever we understand about the judgement of our works and the rewards that follow, surely the greatest reward of all is to be with Jesus. The creedal confession about Christ’s return as judge reminds us that we will give account to him at his judgement seat, so we must take care and maintain focus. It also reminds us that we will see him and enter his joy eternally, so let us live for his joy now and serve him with the gracious gifts he has given us. Christian leader, the Jesus in whom you have placed your trust, whom you love and serve, will return in glory to judge the living and the dead. In this we hope and rejoice. For this we live and work. The apostle Paul urged believers many years ago to ‘stand firm’. May his words embolden and strengthen you today. Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labour in the Lord is not in vain. 1 Cor 15.58 So, make this your confession today: ‘ I believe in Christ’s return’.

It’s a joy to see how God continues to refresh, equip, and encourage leaders and their spouses through the ministries of Living Leadership. As we enter the closing months of the summer term, we wanted to pause to give thanks for what God has done in recent weeks and to invite you to join us in prayer for what lies ahead. Praising God for… Refreshment Days Across the Country In recent weeks, we’ve hosted Refreshment Days in Penrith, Oxford, Lutterworth, and Otford, as well as dedicated Days for men and women serving in Family, Youth & Children’s Ministry. We’re so thankful we were able to create space for around 80 Christian leaders and spouses to step back, rest, and reconnect with God. One participant described the impact beautifully: “Refreshed! Spiritually revitalised. It was a blessing to set aside a day to reflect and focus on God.” We’re grateful for your prayers and support that make these moments of rest and renewal possible, and we are looking forward to serving even more people in the next month. Praying for… More Refreshment Days in June Please pray for the upcoming Refreshment Days happening in: London on 18th June Near Doncaster on 19th June North Hampshire on 19th June A special Day for Couples in Family, Youth & Children’s Ministry in Sheffield on 24th June Pray that each day would be well-attended, well-resourced and, above all, that through the Days the Lord might meet leaders and spouses exactly where they are and bring the refreshment they need for the season ahead. Our First Annual Ministry Check-Up On 11th June, we’re hosting our first ever Annual Ministry Check-Up , an online event for leaders and their spouses. It’s designed to provide space at the end of a busy academic year to reflect on ministry and life, using our Leadership Self-Assessment Toolkit as a guide. The event includes: Guided reflection through the three areas of Character, Competence and Compatibility A one-to-one mentoring conversation to help participants go deeper and make practical plans for the future This is a new venture, and we’d love your prayers for clarity, participation, and impact. We’re trusting God to use this tool to help many grow in faith and service. Spouses Seminar: Seasonal Soul Care Finally, please pray for our upcoming Ministry Spouses Seminar on Monday June 2nd, on the topic of 'Seasonal Soul Care'. We’ll be exploring how the different seasons of life (and even hormonal changes!) impact how we nourish and care for our souls, particularly during the busy summer months. One of our Associates, Roz Arnold, will be leading the session. With many years of ministry experience, serving in ministry herself and alongside her husband in the local church, Roz brings deep wisdom and warmth to her teaching. We’re especially praying that those attending would be built up and spurred on in their faith. Thank you for your prayers! Your prayers, encouragement, and partnership continue to make a real difference in the lives of those we serve. If you’re considering coming to an upcoming event, we’d love to welcome you along!

I’ve been supporting church leaders around the U.K. for twenty years. That’s enough time to get a good sense of the major challenges many of them face. Today, I’d like to address two in particular. 1. A LEADER BECOMES OVERWHELMED There may be a whole raft of factors. Here are some examples. Progressive job creep so their hours have become unsustainable. The expectation has developed that they can fulfil a whole range of roles they never signed up for, and for which they do not possess the gifts. They have developed an unsustainable number of close, personal relationships that are draining them of their energy. They are unable to adapt to the decreasing amount of energy they have as they age. As a result, they try (vainly) to run at the pace they managed fifteen years ago. They disciple others, but they are isolated, without anyone to disciple them. The list could go on and on. Many of the factors will often coalesce into a toxic, and potentially explosive, mixture unless there are others to provide a robust support system. Recently, I’ve had several conversations with leaders during which it has become clear that unless there is a change, the burdens they’re carrying will eventually crush them. They’re simply unsustainable. Yet, on each occasion, I’ve received the same response: I cannot renegotiate the terms of my employment because the church will say I’m the one who signed up for the job and I’m paid to do it . In other words, there is no way forward except to keep juggling the impossible, because a confrontation would just make things worse. Feeling that there is no way to renegotiate impossible expectations and demands, self-destruction (while trying to look outwardly serene, in control, and competent) feels like the path of least resistance. 2. A LEADER FACES A PASTORAL OR DISCIPLINARY SITUATION WITHOUT BEING ABLE TO EXPLAIN THE DETAILS TO THE CHURCH A leader knows that a decision they have no choice but to take will lead to criticism, but they’re unable to defend themselves. This might be due to the need to maintain confidentiality among other reasons. RUSSELL Meet Russell. He’s an elder, who thinks that the pastor is bullying the church manager. This isn’t true—if anything, the manager is behaving badly—but Russell has begun to spread this rumour around the church. By contrast, the leader doesn’t say anything, because . . . a) He believes gossip is damaging. b) He knows that anything he says will likely make things worse. He’s confronted Russell, but Russell is having none of it. He says he’s just telling the truth. And so the rumour spreads and when questioned, the leader’s silence makes him look weak and evasive. Two examples, then, of leaders being overwhelmed or facing unfair attack without the ability to defend themselves. DEFENCELESS LEADERS What do these two things have in common? In both cases, the leader struggles with circumstances that are debilitating, and there doesn’t seem like any kind of resolution. Which leaves them stuck. But not only that, they’re also vulnerable by dint of being unprotected, and because no one knows what they’re facing, no one can come to their aid. They’re defenceless. The result of this is that there is often a big difference between their public persona and their private struggle. In the case of being overwhelmed, they feel they can’t be honest and open because it potentially damages them and their ministry. In the case of being attacked, they keep silent to avoid hurting other people and the wider church. In my experience, I think both of these are relatively common. Sooner or later, all those in Christian ministry will find themselves in one or both of these situations. When both happen at the same time it is especially devastating. Often, leaders find out if their support networks (their scaffolding, if you like) are robust enough only when confronted by these challenges. In many cases, sadly, they aren’t, but by then it’s too late. Most leaders are happy and fulfilled as they begin their lives in ministry. This is frequently described as a honeymoon period, with the rather cynical expectation that it won’t last. What makes this heartbreaking is that ministers begin with such optimism. They assume that things will turn out well, never imagining the dangers ahead; hence they rarely prepare for the worst by establishing a support network sufficiently robust to provide the help they need. When the work begins so well, why would you? Does a sailor lash the rigging to the deck in the middle of a storm? Of course not. They tie everything down before the storm arrives. It’s almost impossible, then, for a leader to find adequate support once the storm hits. But worse than that, a leader has often come to lean on the very environment that has later become toxic. It started out so positive and supportive, but now this ‘scaffolding’ has become unreliable and perhaps even threatening. One of the factors that is most debilitating for leaders is the discovery that the support on which they relied is unsafe. So, at the moment when a leader is facing the most serious difficulties and challenges, they find out that the people on which they relied are now unreliable, maybe even a threat to their job. And there is no alternative in place. This happens exactly when the leader needs support the most. LACKING BOUNDARIES This is made worse by the inability of many in Christian ministry to set appropriate boundaries between the different areas of their lives. As a result, work, leisure, community, personal spiritual life, family life, and church, all merge together. Therefore, anything that damages ‘church-as-support-structure’ has the potential to damage all the other areas as well, areas that for anyone else would be separate from difficulties in the workplace. This is sometimes not for want of trying. Is it any wonder that many Christian leaders become rather cagey when trying to draw boundaries around their personal lives? They have a lot more to lose than most people if things go wrong in their ministry sphere, as it can snowball into unforeseen problems in every other area of life. PREPARE FOR THE STORM Do you see a storm on the horizon? Be assured, sooner or later, a storm will come. If you’re a leader, then, it’s essential to set up your support network while the seas are calm. The following are some suggestions that work well whether the sun is shining or the storm clouds are gathering. They’re helpful in all weathers. Be a member of a prayer-filled, worshiping ‘fraternal’ (or female equivalent (i) ) of real depth. Establish good rhythms, habits, and patterns of rest, refreshment, and worship. Find a mentor. (We offer mentor support at Living Leadership) Maintain real friendships with people who genuinely care for you. Join an accountability group for leaders (and spouses) outside your ministry context. Seek opportunities for personal and professional development. Ensure clarity with the church about expectations. On both sides—what the church expects and what you can expect, usually set out in a clear job description. This is best done before the job begins, not once problems develop. Make sure there’s clarity about how to renegotiate those expectations when necessary. Again, before the job begins, not after. Most of all, develop a healthy team. It is hard for a paid minister to talk about everything with unpaid church officers. For one thing, it is unusual for officers to understand the leader’s job (even if they think they do). There is just so much you only get to understand from the inside. And second, the relationship isn’t a hundred percent symmetrical. A paid minister struggling with a pattern of sin feels far more vulnerable than an unpaid elder or church warden with the same struggle. Nevertheless, a healthy and supportive team—especially elders (or equivalent)—that prays together, is dedicated to each other, and loves each other well is essential. In John’s gospel, Jesus told us how the world would recognise us. A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another. John 13.34-35 A healthy, godly team learns to love. And as leaders draw close to others with whom they lead, these relationships develop a robustness that helps unlock the necessary honesty and transparency, that stop toxic situations from turning into explosive ones. (i) ‘Fraternals’ is a word most often associated with male leaders in ministry. Female leaders need exactly the same kind of support group, whatever name it is given.

Allow us to begin with a quote. One of the easiest ways to get a group of ministers to shift uncomfortably with guilt is to ask them how their families are coping with ministry. Craig Hamilton. Wisdom in Ministry . Ministry is a high calling, demanding immense energy, time, and emotional investment. The sacrifices a minister is called to make produce a very challenging question. How does the family fit in to such a life? Too often, ministers and their spouses are pulled in opposite directions, trying to be present for both their congregation and their children; sometimes feeling they are failing at both. As you can imagine (or you’ve experienced yourself), many ministers experience the sharpest tension on Sundays. For us, parenting four young children at church was so much more difficult than managing them at home or in the park! The demands of ministry—preaching, leading services, running programs, and engaging with the congregation—collide with the needs of young children. Let’s be honest, little ones often struggle to sit still; they feel the absence of their parent, who’s up front on stage, or they crave attention after a long morning at church. It’s especially difficult when those you’ve invited for Sunday lunch simply don’t engage with the kids or later, when your own children won’t help out with your efforts at hospitality. BEING THE CHILD OF A MINISTER Ministers' children often face unique pressures, shaped by both the expectations of the church and the demands of ministry life. One of the greatest challenges is unrealistic expectations . They are often assumed to be spiritually mature, well-behaved, and knowledgeable about theology simply because of their parents’ role. Many feel the weight of needing to ‘know the right answers’ and behave impeccably, leading to pressure or resentment. One of our children was once told by a church leader to ‘do better because you’re Gareth and Claire’s child’. It can also be lonely . Congregations may assume ministers' families are well-supported, yet they can feel isolated. People may be hesitant to befriend them, perhaps even feeling a bit intimidated by their position as a minister’s child. In addition, they often struggle to find peers who truly understand their life experience. Ministers' children often feel overlooked yet scrutinised . While their needs may be sidelined due to their parents’ responsibilities, they also live in a ‘goldfish bowl’, with their behaviour constantly observed. At the same time, they may hear criticism of their parents, leaving them unsure of how to respond to negative comments about someone they love. We’ve known of church leaders who’ve had to step down from their positions. What does that do to the child(ren)? How do they view God after such an experience? Their lives are shaped by someone else’s schedule . Pastoral emergencies and ministry commitments can mean missing out on family time or social events, reinforcing the feeling that church always comes first. One of our children once said to me (Gareth), ‘Dad, you meet regularly, one-to-one, with so many people. Why don’t you do that more with me?’. Ouch! Pastors’ kids may also struggle with the confidentiality factor , hearing sensitive information they must keep private without knowing how to process it. Finally, they may be forced into stereotypes , either expected to be perfect, or dismissed as rebellious. When a minister comes to understand these challenges, seeing them clearly and recognising their impact, they can take action to support their children with grace. They are better able to ensure their child(ren) feel valued not for their role in ministry but simply as beloved members of the family. SHIFTING THE PERSPECTIVE The goal of reflecting on these tensions isn’t to induce guilt but to encourage a healthier balance. Ministry will always be demanding, but it is possible to create rhythms that allow both church and family to thrive. More importantly, when we feel weak or we think we’re failing, we can rest in the reality that God’s grace is sufficient for us. Our struggles as ministry families are not signs of failure but invitations to rely more deeply on him. Here are a few key principles to consider. REFRAME YOUR CALLING Ministry is not just about serving the church—it also includes shepherding your family well. Your role as a parent and spouse is part of your ministry, not something in competition with it . When we reframe our perspective, we begin to see that faithfulness at home is just as significant as faithfulness in church leadership. When done well, in God’s strength, these twin roles can enhance each other. Parent and minister aren’t incompatible roles but mutually supportive. INVOLVE YOUR FAMILY IN MINISTRY, BUT WITH BALANCE Rather than ministry being something that takes you away from your family, look for ways to involve your children in ways that are age-appropriate and enjoyable for them. This could be small acts of service, being part of the church’s social life, or simply seeing their parents enjoy ministry. However, be mindful not to impose expectations on them that create pressure. BE HONEST ABOUT THE CHALLENGES One of the most powerful things ministry parents can do is to acknowledge the difficulties rather than pretending everything is fine. Talk with your spouse and children about the challenges, and give them permission to express frustrations and emotions honestly. It’s okay to say, ‘This is hard, and we’re figuring it out together.’ Claire is known in our family for asking, ‘What can I pray for you, darling?’ Unsurprisingly, prayer works and what’s going on in heads and hearts is brought into the light. FIND SUPPORT AND COMMUNITY Ministry can feel isolating, but you are not alone. Seek out relationships with other ministry families who understand the unique challenges you face. Encourage open conversations with trusted friends, mentors, or counsellors. Remember, asking for help is not a sign of weakness but of wisdom. MODEL GRACE, NOT PERFECTION Your children don’t need perfect parents; they need parents who model grace. When you mess up - when ministry gets too busy, when you snap under pressure, when you miss an important moment- be quick to apologise and show them what it looks like to rely on God’s grace. Demonstrating humility and dependence on God is one of the best gifts you can give your children. SUPPORTING YOUR CHILDREN IN MINISTRY LIFE Parenting while in ministry involves all the usual Christian parenting principles—grace, gospel-centred conversations, prayer, and nurturing faith—but with added pressure. The unique challenges of ministry life can amplify the complexities of raising children. Here are some things we’ve found helpful. TEACH KIDS TO LOVE THE CHURCH Children who engage with a diverse, multigenerational church family are more likely to remain faithful into adulthood. Ministry kids need a robust theology of the church, recognising it as a bunch of ‘sinners limping toward glory’, while at the same time vital, glorious, and part of God’s plan. Helping children appreciate this truth can shape their view of faith and community. PRACTICE SABBATH AS A FAMILY Ministry can be draining, making rest essential. Prioritising a family Sabbath—a time to delight in God, his grace, and creation—can restore joy to a family. Though challenging to implement, it’s a practice that models trust in God. RECOGNISE EACH CHILD’S UNIQUE JOURNEY Ministry impacts children differently—some thrive, others feel pressured, and some wrestle with faith. Parents must provide individualised support, recognising their children’s distinct needs and struggles. Proactively praying with and for them helps reveal their spiritual concerns and fosters open communication. At this point, it’s worth acknowledging that, sadly, our children’s journeys may sometimes lead them away from the Lord. Witnessing this can be heartbreaking and difficult, and it often exposes deep vulnerabilities in parents—especially those in ministry roles. It’s important to make sure our children know that they are loved, no matter the direction they’re heading, and we should remember that God is often at work in their hearts in ways we might not expect or choose. If you are a minister and your child refuses to attend church, be sure to engage in open dialogue. Take their personality, age, and stage of life into account. Pray for wisdom, and aim to respond thoughtfully rather than reacting purely out of emotion. EMBRACE SACRIFICE Good parenting requires sacrifices—less study time, allowing beloved quiet times to become ‘noisy times’ with family for some seasons, and clear boundaries with the congregation. These all help. Sometimes sliding off a tight schedule to allow for small, intentional moments of connection, like truly listening to a child’s concerns, convey deep love and security. When you make those kinds of sacrifices, they are worth their weight in gold. SEE STRUGGLE AS SPIRITUAL GROWTH Being a pastor’s child isn’t easy, but difficulties can lead to growth. Struggles drive kids to rely on God, strengthen family bonds, and deepen faith. Rather than fearing challenges, parents can embrace them as opportunities for spiritual formation. A FINAL ENCOURAGEMENT Ministry families will always face unique pressures, but they are not without hope. If you’re in ministry yourself, rather than shifting uncomfortably with guilt, may I encourage you to shift towards a healthier, grace-filled approach to balancing ministry and family. As you serve your congregation, I urge you to remember that your role is also to nurture the small church within your home. They are both a part of your sacred calling. If you’re struggling with these tensions, please know that you’re not alone. Seek support, pray for wisdom, and trust that God is working in both your ministry and your family. He is not asking you to choose between the two—he is inviting you to be faithful in both, resting in his unfailing grace.

Empathy. It’s one of the buzzwords of our culture right now. Everyone wants to receive empathy or to be seen to be empathetic. But what is it? And can we describe Jesus as empathetic? First, a definition from dictionary.com Empathy Noun The psychological identification with or vicarious experiencing of the emotions, thoughts, or attitudes of another. I FEEL YOUR PAIN I feel your pain . Really? Do you? This is our common understanding of empathy, but it’s mistaken. ‘Vicarious’ communicates the idea that we use our imaginations to participate in the experience of others. That’s not the same as actually  feeling my pain. It just isn’t. I wonder if you’ve ever desired to feel another person’s pain, and discovered that it’s not possible. I have. When my loved ones suffer, I experience an intense desire to feel what they’re feeling, so that I might in some way journey with them as they suffer. But I can’t. I can sympathise (feel sorrow for another) but I can’t actually feel their pain. It belongs to them alone. I can’t climb inside it and feel it too. If we give empathy the meaning so many of us give it—feeling the pain of another—then who can do this? Could God manage it? Certainly, we read that ‘The Lord is close to the brokenhearted’ (Ps 34.18) and ‘ We do not have a high priest (Jesus) who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses’ (Heb 4.15a). But feeling our pain? In Isaiah, we’re given a hint of this extraordinary truth. In all their affliction he was afflicted . Isaiah 63.9a (ESV) This verse in Isaiah expresses the profound connection that God has with his people, Israel. The suffering they experienced, he also experienced. Building a theology on one verse is, of course, unwise, but could it be true that the Lord actually  feels my pain? What do you think? So, what about Jesus? How does he express empathy in the gospels? In so many ways. THE EMPATHY OF JESUS First, Jesus expresses his empathy through action. His healings show his compassion for those who are suffering. His exorcisms do the same thing, relieving the pain of a person possessed by an evil spirit. He also shows empathy through his words. In John’s gospel, when he’s praying to his heavenly Father, he describes the proximity and connection he has with his disciples. All mine are yours, and yours are mine, and I am glorified in them. John 17.10 I in them and you in me, that they may become perfectly one . . . John 17.23a But what about his teaching? Here, it’s easy to become confused. Frankly, there are many in our churches who want an empathetic Jesus to wrap them up in cotton wool. If he feels my pain, surely he will take it away . It’s easy to misunderstand Jesus. Does he say encouraging words? Certainly. Here are a couple of my favourite verses. Come to me, all who labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.   Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. Matt 11.28-29 I could fill the rest of this post with similar verses. Our Lord knows us; he cares for us; he’s with us. All true. But if that means we see Jesus as touchy-feely, then we’re making a huge mistake. It’s essential, then, in our sermons and teaching, that we don’t mislead people into thinking that the primary aim of Jesus’ ministry was to remove pain and suffering, or to comfort and soothe. It certainly wasn’t intended to massage the egos of his listeners.       In the gospels, the purpose of Jesus’ miracles and the focus of his teaching isn’t merely the removal of pain. Though he does do this. He’s showing the world that he is the promised Messiah, and he’s launching the kingdom of the heavens. Jesus is more interested in teaching the truth about God and this new kingdom than anything else. By miles. Clearly, God cares for the poor, the marginalised, the suffering, there’s no doubt about that. But when Jesus calls people to follow him, he sounds anything but empathetic. Here’s a flavour. Then Jesus told his disciples, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and  take up his cross  and follow me. Matt 16.24 If anyone comes to me and does not hate his own father and mother and wife and children and brothers and sisters, yes, and even his own life, he cannot be my disciple. Luke 14.26   To the rich ruler . . . When Jesus heard this, he said to him,  “One thing you still lack.  Sell all that you have  and distribute to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me.” Luke 18.22 THE IMPLICATIONS So, what are the implications for church leaders? There are many, but here are three. JESUS IS CLOSER THAN WE CAN IMAGINE We read in the Psalms that God is close to the brokenhearted. Which of us isn’t brokenhearted? Which church isn’t full of people, who have lost relatives, who suffer physical and mental anguish, who often feel lonely, fall out with relatives, struggle with finances, and, at times, feel despair. Beyond knowing, understanding, and comforting, might our God actually feel our pain? His knowledge is deep; in Jesus, his experience of human life is full and complex, and his love far greater than we can possibly understand. So, when we suffer, yes, he’s there with us. He is closer than we can imagine.    That’s our Jesus. TEACH THE TRUTH Jesus taught hard truths. He may have extended grace to sinners, such as Zacchaeus, but he was also highly critical of those who doubted or questioned his priorities and path. He called Simon ‘Satan’—not very empathetic—and we all know what he said to the Pharisees. In these stories, we never see ourselves as Pharisees. We are ever blind to the planks in our eyes. And we so easily take the easy path. We may want an ‘empathetic Jesus’ when in truth, we need the real Jesus, who calls us to a holy life. Enter by the narrow gate. For the gate is wide and the way is easy that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many.   For the gate is narrow and  the way is hard that leads to life , and those who find it are few. Matt 7.13-14 Not very ‘empathetic’, perhaps, but exactly what we need to hear. Most of all, we need the truth because we follow the Truth. REVERSE EMPATHY Finally, what we truly need is what I call ‘reverse empathy’. What is this? Instead of God feeling our pain, the New Testament speaks about our intimate connection with Jesus in his sufferings. In other words, we are the ones who need to ‘share his sufferings.’ That I may know him and the power of his resurrection, and may share his sufferings , becoming like him in his death. Phil 3.10 But rejoice insofar as you share Christ's sufferings , that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed. 1 Pet 4.13 This kind of empathy is one in which we are joined to our Saviour in his  suffering. What is the worst thing that can happen to us? Death, of course. Until we come to understand that in God’s glorious plan, it is death that gives us life. And not just the death of Christ, but our own deaths. The apostle Paul puts it this way. I have been crucified with Christ  and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. Gal 2.20 This is what we really need. The commitment and courage to share in Christ’s suffering. It requires that we give up our lives, and when we do, we will discover that he returns them to us, whole and new and full of himself. Our greatest need isn’t empathy. Of any description. Certainly, there are times when we need to be comforted, but we have a deeper need. If you’re a leader, the people in the churches you serve have a deeper need. They need the real Jesus, the risen Jesus. The Jesus who calls them to follow him, to share his sufferings, to lose their lives for the sake of his glorious kingdom.                                   .

He ascended to heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father. Nicene Creed He ascended into heaven, he is seated at the right hand of the Father. Apostles’ Creed For forty days after his resurrection, the Lord Jesus appeared repeatedly to his disciples. ‘He presented himself to them and gave many convincing proofs that he was alive’ (Acts 1.3a). During this period, he ‘spoke about the kingdom of God’ (Acts 1.3), after which he went with them to the Mount of Olives. There, he told them that they would be his witnesses in the power of the Holy Spirit and was then ‘taken up before their very eyes, and a cloud hid him from their sight’ (Acts 1.9). The bodily ascension of Jesus is a core belief of the Christian faith. It sets the pattern for the manner of his return, stated clearly by ‘two men dressed in white’. “Men of Galilee,” they said, “why do you stand here looking into the sky? This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen him go into heaven.” Acts 1.11 The New Testament goes further, though. In the book of Hebrews, the writer assures us of his present exaltation. Such a high priest truly meets our need—one who is holy, blameless, pure, set apart from sinners, exalted above the heavens. Heb 7.26 Luke uses similar language in the book of Acts. God exalted him to his own right hand as Prince and Saviour . . . Acts 5.31a In John’s gospel, Jesus challenges his disciples, asking, ‘what if you see the Son of Man ascend to where he was before!’ (John 6.62). This was his position by right and one he held before his incarnation; he was merely returning there. Just as importantly, the ascension was also the culmination of the ‘great reversal’, described most succinctly by the apostle Paul in his letter to the Philippians. He ‘humbled himself’ and ‘was obedient to death’ but of course, death could not hold him. Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. Phil 2.9-11 The New Testament emphasises three consequences that flow from the ascension of Jesus. THE SENDING OF THE SPIRIT Speaking on the Day of Pentecost, the apostle Peter says that it is because of Jesus’ ascension and exaltation that the Holy Spirit has been poured out. God has raised this Jesus to life, and we are all witnesses of it. Exalted to the right hand of God , he has received from the Father the promised Holy Spirit and has poured out what you now see and hear. Acts 2.32-33 The empowerment of the Church by the Holy Spirit for its mission of making Jesus known to the world was made possible by Jesus’ ascension. JESUS THE INTERCESSOR In the book of Hebrews, we read about Jesus as ‘our great high priest, who has ascended into heaven’. He sits at the right hand of the Father, as an exalted human being. As the writer to the Hebrews continues . . . For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin. Heb 4.15 Because Jesus is our High Priest and he knows our weaknesses, we can come confidently before God’s throne knowing it is a throne of grace and that, ‘we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need’ (Heb 4.16b). Jesus is exalted at the right hand of God, where he intercedes for us (Heb 7.25; Rom 8.34). Right now, the ascended Jesus is praying for you and for me and he invites us to join him in prayer. GRACE GIFTS In his letter to the Ephesians, the apostle Paul writes, But to each one of us grace has been given as Christ apportioned it. This is why it says: “When he ascended on high, he took many captives and gave gifts to his people.” Eph 4.8 When he ascended, Jesus gave grace gifts to his people. When we think about spiritual gifts, we often think of abilities given to believers, but in this passage Paul describes people as gifts to the body of Christ. Specifically, the people whose ministry of the word equips others. So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip his people for works of service , so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ. Eph 4.11-13 This is all made possible by Christ’s ascension. When he ascended he poured out the Spirit to empower his people and gave people to equip them for his service. These truths about the ascension frame Christian ministry. CHRIST IS THE HEAD The ascension of Jesus reminds us that the hope of the Church is not in ministers. We may be leaders, but we are not the leader. The head of the church is Christ alone. He is the Chief Shepherd of his sheep. All authority is his and he reigns supreme above all powers. When Christian leaders fail, it is such a great assurance to remember that the Lord of the Church is without sin. We may fail, but he never does. His perfection is our boast, and he will never disappoint us. His completed work of salvation, and his seat at the right hand of the Father is a powerful corrective to any activist tendencies we may have. We must remember that we do not achieve the salvation of any soul; nor do we sustain the Church by our activity. He is the Saviour and sustainer of all things; we merely bear testimony to this wonderful truth. PLAYING OUR PART At the same time, the ascension of Jesus reminds us that his work on earth now continues through his body and that ministers have a vital role to play. We do not save people—that is a gift of God’s grace received by them through faith and not due to their works or ours (Eph 2.8-9). Nevertheless, it is through the preaching of the gospel that God brings salvation. We do not determine how God’s people serve him—he prepares work in advance for them to do (Eph 2.10)—but it is through our teaching and the example we set that they can be equipped for this work. It is a marvel that Christians are both the workmanship of God—what God is making in this world – while at the same time being the instruments of God – the means by which he is accomplishing his work (Eph 2.8-10). Within this wonderful divine plan, those who preach and teach have a particular role to play. If you are a pastor-teacher serving Christ’s church, have you ever given thought to the fact that you are a gracious gift to the people you serve? Give thanks to God for the privilege you have of caring for, protecting, and teaching his people. Your ministry is Christ-ordained, so make sure it is Christ-honouring. If you are a member of a church, consider for a moment that those who lead you are a gift from Christ to you. Give thanks for them and be grateful for their care of you. Remember also that you have a role to play in making their service a joy for them. CHRIST THE CONQUEROR Christ ascended and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He now intercedes for us and also waits . . . But when this priest had offered for all time one sacrifice for sins, he sat down at the right hand of God, and since that time he waits for his enemies to be made his footstool. Heb 10.12-13 He reigns as he waits for his enemies to become his footstool, showing that they have been completely defeated. Until then, there is work to be done, and he has given the Church a grace gift of servants, who are called ‘to equip his people for works of service’. Whether you are among those who lead, or you are one who is led, the charge is the same. We are all called to the work of extending the reign of Christ in the lives of those who bow the knee and confess that he is Lord. So, make this your confession today: ‘ I believe in the ascension’.

Picture the scene. We’ve just moved into our Midlands office, located on the second floor of a former town hall; it's now a church. While there’s a generously sized staircase and a lift connecting the ground and first floors, the second floor is only accessible via a narrow, winding wooden staircase. As part of our setup, we were generously gifted a large, five-foot-tall metal cabinet, with sturdy metal shelving. We were very grateful, but I’m sure you can already see where this is headed. Getting this heavy, unwieldy cabinet up that staircase was no small task. Thankfully, two staff members from the church and two from the neighbouring office graciously offered to help me. Well, ‘help me ’ might be a generous interpretation of my own role. To my embarrassment, I somehow ended up in the least load-bearing position during the cabinet’s ascent. Determined not to let others do all the work, I joined in, stretching to grab hold of the cabinet with one hand while awkwardly huffing and puffing with the strain of even that minimal contribution. And just when I thought I was making a difference, disaster struck. I tripped over my own feet, let go of the tiny portion of weight I was carrying, and went flying backwards into a wall! My ego took the brunt of the damage—don’t worry, I was fine—but while I was busy dusting myself off, my comrades powered through. They heaved the cabinet to the top landing, mounted it onto a trolley, and rolled it into the office, where it now sits in pride of place. So, why am I sharing this (rather mortifying) story? BEARING THE LOAD A few weeks later, I was praying to the Lord about some things that were weighing on me. Certain responsibilities were especially burdensome, and some tough relational situations lay heavily on my heart. I confessed to God that the weight of these burdens felt too much. Like Atlas in the Greek myth, I felt like the weight of the world was on my shoulders; I was straining, unsure how much longer I could keep going before I would be completely crushed. And then this cabinet-shifting memory came to mind and a question rang out in my heart. Who is really bearing the load? In ministry, as in life, it is easy to be overwhelmed by the responsibilities placed upon us. The Lord calls us to good works in his name, but in this fallen world, this work is never easy. Our labour is a struggle, and there is brokenness in our relationships—even in close ones with people we are seeking to love and serve. In addition, we are at risk of slipping into the belief that everything depends on us. We’re tempted to believe that if we don’t push a bit harder, do a bit more, and just keep going (even going beyond our own healthy limits), things will fall apart. This mindset is mistaken, and deep inside, most of us know it. Instead of bearing down harder, what if we stepped back a moment and reconsidered who is truly holding things together? THE TRUE BEARER OF ALL BURDENS The first thing we can do is turn to the Psalms. Praise be to the Lord, to God our Saviour, who daily bears our burdens. Psa 68.19 Cast your burden on the Lord, and he will sustain you; he will never permit the righteous to be moved. Psalm 55.22 (ESV) At times, we’re tempted to present an image of self-sufficiency. I can handle this. I can handle everything! But if we believe we’re the ones holding up the weight of the world, no wonder we feel crushed. Of course it’s too much for us! We were never designed for such a task. And, in fact, it’s an illusion that we’re doing it. This is what these beautiful verses in the Psalms remind us. It is the Lord who is the bearer of our burdens, each and every day. It is the Lord who carries the weight of all the things he’s given to us to do. It is he who lifts, steadies, and sustains all things (including us). Where your strength fails, his never does. Where you stumble, he remains firm. It is the Lord who really ‘gets it up the stairs’, even if he delights to have us ‘helping’. He is not asking you to carry a weight that only he can bear. He is inviting you to release your grip on that weight and trust that his hands are already firmly in place. ARE YOU FEELING THE STRAIN? What are you heaving up the proverbial staircase right now? Are you overloaded with ministry responsibilities? Is relational friction weighing you down? Are financial concerns or practical tasks feeling like too much? Today, remember this. You do not bear this weight alone. The sovereign Lord of the universe bears your burdens with you. When you face a daunting ‘staircase’, you can entrust the task to the Lord who is already at work with you and in you. He’s always there, always reliable and faithful. The responsibility doesn’t lie with you alone. He’s by your side, shouldering your burdens. Always. So, may I encourage you with the words of Psalm 55 again? Cast your burden on the Lord, and he will sustain you (Ps 55.22a). Knowing that our Lord carries our burdens gives us amazing freedom. And yet there is another truth that is just as precious. We too are being carried. Listen to me, O house of Jacob, all the remnant of the house of Israel, who have been borne by me from before your birth, carried from the womb; even to your old age I am he, and to gray hairs I will carry you . I have made, and I will bear; I will carry and will save. Isa 46.3-4 These are prophetic words for the ancient Hebrews, but they resonate, don’t they? They contain so much encouragement that continues into the new covenant era. If you’re a leader, you have many responsibilities, that much is true. At times, it’s natural to feel burdened, but be assured of this. As you carry the weight of your obligations, he is carrying you. At all times. He will never, ever drop you. If this post has spoken to you, do join me in this prayer. Heavenly Father, I come to you today with tight fists grasping on to things that are weighing me down. I know I need to let go of them, but I’m struggling. [Take a moment to name some of the things that spring to mind.] Father, help me see afresh that you are the one who is bearing the weight of these burdens. Loosen my straining grip, and help me to believe and trust that they do not depend on me. Help me to rest in the liberating truth of your sovereignty. Give me eyes to see that you lovingly bear me, even as I seek to serve you and those around me with love and faithfulness. Amen

Don’t look at them, look at me! Over twenty years ago, I heard these words in a sermon, and they remain with me to this day. They have left an indelible mark inside me. In fact, my response to them—either in heeding them or ignoring them—has defined my whole life. Let me set the scene. I was living in Southern California with my wife and children, and we attended a Presbyterian church. The preacher, called Chuck (Charles), was the youth leader; he attended our homegroup. He is black, and was in his thirties at the time. I was not a close friend of his, which is an important detail. The impact of his words did not come from a shared bond of friendship. It came from the power of the words, their truth and relevance to my life, and the Holy Spirit. Though it might sound odd, he wasn’t the significant one. His words were. This is what happens when God chooses to speak. The one mediating the message is important, but not as important as the God who is speaking. THE STORY Chuck told a story about an incident in a car park. He was with his white girlfriend, and a gang of youths started taunting him. A black man with a white girlfriend was quite capable of stoking racist attitudes in the U.S.A. back then, and sadly remains so. He was becoming agitated and was about to shout back at his tormentors, when his girlfriend took hold of his face and turned it gently towards her. ‘No, Chuck, don’t look at them, look at me!’ In other words, ‘Look at the face of the one who loves you. Stop wasting energy on people who mean you harm. There is nothing to be gained by doing that. When you look at me, my love will be all you need. So, look at me!’ And that’s what he did. He gazed into the eyes of his girlfriend. His girlfriend became his wife, and they have lived together happily as man and wife to this day. So, what did I learn from this story? DISTRACTIONS Like many Christians today, there are times when I have been ‘Laodicean’ in my approach to my faith. Luke-warm. Neither hot nor cold. At times, I have deserved to be spat out. The principal reason for this can be summed up with one word: distractions. I have been distracted by the cares of this world. The seed falling among the thorns refers to someone who hears the word, but the worries of this life and the deceitfulness of wealth choke the word, making it unfruitful. Matt 13.22 It is not uncommon in our churches to find swathes of people seduced by what I call the ‘There’s nothing wrong with . . .’ affliction. (A post on this coming later). Enjoyable pastimes that aren’t classified as sins (watching TV, children’s sports, repairing our homes etc), that are all well and good, except that they gradually swell to engulf not just some of our time, but almost all our time. The flame flickers and gradually dies, though we pretend that Sunday church attendance still keeps it alive. Don’t look at them, look at me! Before writing about the descent towards ‘Nothing’ (the complete frittering away of our time), C.S. Lewis includes this line in his Screwtape masterpiece. He will want his prayers to be unreal, for he will dread nothing so much as effective contact with the Enemy (i.e. God). His aim will be to let sleeping worms lie. The Screwtape Letters: Letters from a Senior to a Junior Devil (i) Our hearts become cold when the contemplation of the Lord becomes something we fear. We avoid ‘effective contact with the Enemy (God)’. Distractions then function as suitable methods by which we avoid intimacy with him, because . . . well . . . why? There’s a question. Perhaps, in part, because we haven’t properly understood grace. Or maybe because prayer and worship require concentration and effort, and we have never trained ourselves to focus for longer than a few minutes at best. THE BEATIFIC VISION In The Divine Comedy, Dante imagines the soul’s journey towards God. Regardless of your view of Dante’s theology, he has the right destination in mind. He does understand that the ultimate goal of all believers is to experience the ‘beatific vision’. I particularly like these lines in the final Canto. I remember I grew bolder for this reason In bearing up with it, until I merged My gazing with the infinite Goodness. O grace abounding, by which I have dared To fix my eyes through the eternal Light So deeply that my sight was spent in it! Divine Comedy. Paradiso. Canto XXXIII. Lines 79-84. The ‘beatific vision’ of Dante’s conception is considered to take place after death, but the apostle Paul believes that our contemplation of the Lord is something that changes us here and now. Two verses come to mind. And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord’s glory , are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit. 2 Cor 3.18 Paul acknowledges our current limitations, even as he longs for perfect vision. For now we see only a reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face . Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known. 2 Cor 13.12 The contemplation of the Lord’s glory. The Westminster Confession puts it this way: ‘To glorify God, and enjoy him forever’. This is our destiny. I think this is why Chuck’s sermon has left such a mark in me. For me, his story encapsulated exactly what God is saying to me every day of my life. Trust me. Love me. If you gaze upon me, you will see that I can be trusted to give you all you need right now. Don’t allow anything out there to take your focus away from me, because when you look at me, you will see that I love you. And that’s all you need. So look at me, and know that I love you. TRUST Implicit in these words is a link between faith and love. While Chuck was becoming distracted by his tormentors, his girlfriend was inviting him to trust that she knew what was best for him. When he turned to gaze into her eyes, it was an act of faith. Faith and love are inextricably linked. To love God is to trust him. And when we trust him, we will turn to him in worship. Every morning, we all awake in that car park. Every morning. The world is screaming for our attention. It is dragging us down or it is telling us lies. It may also be filling us with so many enjoyable pursuits that we no longer desire to gaze in the face of the one who loves us. We have become distracted or we don’t really believe the words of the one who made us. Yet, our beloved stands before us, pulling our face towards his. He asks us to trust him. He wants our attention; he wants us to catch a vision of his glory. MOSES’ SHINING FACE It is said that Moses, on coming down from Mount Sinai, had a face that shone (Ex 34.29-35). His contact with the Lord had left a physical mark on him. That mark was light. So he put on a veil to cover his face. It was too much (too bright?) for others to bear. I’d be surprised if the apostle Paul didn’t have the Exodus account in mind when he wrote to the Corinthians. And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord’s glory . We, like Moses, are invited to contemplate the Lord’s glory. What an astonishing thought. No mountain. No tablets of stone. No veils. Just a vision of the believer who worships, who gazes upon the Lord’s glory. So, a few questions to finish. Do you trust the Lord? With all your heart and soul? Or have you become distracted? Are you listening to him when he pulls your face towards his? Don’t look at them, look at me! The Lord says this to me every day. Does he say it to you? Look at me. Enjoy me. Worship me. Love me. When you look at me, you will see that I love you. And that’s all you need right now. So look at me, and know that I love you. (i) Letter 9. The Screwtape Letters: Letters from a Senior to a Junior Devil. C.S.Lewis. 1942. Bodley Head.