Passionate Pastors

It seems that many of my recent posts over the past couple weeks have had the recurring theme of passion. This has not been intentional, but it is a subject that has been close to my heart so far this year. For the past two days I have had the privilege of joining about 40 Halifax area pastors on a prayer retreat. Some of these men and women I have developed relationships with over the past few years through the JesusAtlantic ministry. Some are new friendships that I value going forward.

For those reading this who are not church goers, I want to give you an insight into the heart and lives of ministers. Actually, for those who do go to church, this might help you see a new side of the men and women leading the church you attend.

For two days, I watched and participated in the community that is developing amongst pastors from different backgrounds, denominations, and Christian heritages. It was absolutly awe inspring to see them being so transparent with each other. Sharing the triumphs and failures of daily ministry life. To hear them sing and pray together. To see them celebrate great ministry successes and weep with those who are hurting, struggling, and feeling alone or in seasons of dispair.

The theme that resonates with me though is the sheer passion that wells up in these servants for what they are called to do. They love God and love people. Not just people who are already in their congregations, but the people in their communities as well. They desperately want to help individuals and families and they desperately want their churches to make positive impacts on their communities. Often we see them only as spiritual leaders. I witnessed their humanity, their raw spirituality, and their heartfelt desire to care.

This was a refreshing experience for me personally. A timely encouragement to witness this deep passion for the call on their lives. The community amongst them, this support group is indeed strong and growing stronger. So, it occurs that we can apply this to business too…

In the business community, how often do we step outside our daily routines for a time of refreshing? For a time to be lifted up when we are down? To take time to celebrate the victories and mourn the failures. To encourage someone or be encouraged? To build into  the lives of our colleagues? If you haven’t done something like this I would encourage you to give it some serious thought. Walk away for a day or two. Reflect on where you have been and where you are going. Get recalibrated. And, certainly if spirituality is a priority for you as an individual - nurture that as well. It is good, it is refreshing, and you will walk away strengthened and encouraged - ready to engage your passion revitalized in what you are called to do.