Burning
October 30, 2008
“If I say, “I will not mention Him or speak any more in HIs name, there is in my heart as it were a burning fire shut up in my bones, and I am weary of holding it in and I cannot.” Jeremiah 20:9
How do explain my job as a pastor? First, it is not a job. Yeah, sure there is a job description and a line of accountability as any job may have. These are necessary and good. But regardless of the things pastors do to stay organized with the expectations of the churches we work for we are not professionals.
The truth is-I can’t help myself. If I try not to do it, and I admit, I have tried not to do it, I am miserable. It is not a job but a call. This call burns inside me. When I experience the moments of true spiritual ministry it is amazing. Why God would choose me to be part of this? I don’t know. But, it can bring me into intense intimacy with God. Sometimes, it is the most boring job ever. But a wise pastor learns to dive deep into the word and wait on God. His work is that which I cannot ultimately plan to do. I just wait and burn.
Sometimes the burning can be the most restless friend I have ever had, but it is a good friend.
