Secrets of Staying Power

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A preacher's biggest problem is how to toughen his hide without hardening his heart.
Vance Havner

As Gary Milam (not his real name) looked out over the Sunday morning congregation during the offertory hymn, his heart began to lift. Even some of the front pews were filled; it looked like the best attendance since he'd arrived six months ago. Welcoming the two new families earlier in the service had also been a boost. They were both excited about the church, and that rubbed off on him. He looked at his watch: Twenty after eleven. It was going to be a good message this morning; he could feel it.

His associate, Karl, leaned over toward him to say something, and Gary tilted his head that way while still looking out at the congregation.

"Gary," Karl said, "I'm going to take some time at the end of the service. I'm turning in my resignation."

Gary turned and looked at him. Two or three times Karl had made veiled comments about resigning, but still, coming in the middle of the service like this, it caught Gary completely off guard. "Are you sure that's what you want to do?" Gary whispered, searching his eyes.

"I'm sure," Karl said. He kept a steady gaze.

Gary knew he couldn't bodily stop him. "I'd ask that you not do that."

"It's time."

The offertory hymn was in its final chords. Gary stood, gave one more glance at Karl, and moved toward the pulpit. It was time to preach.

During the sermon Gary felt utterly schizophrenic. One part of him was looking at his notes and interacting with the congregation. But a deeper part inside his mind was trying to sort out what Karl's surprise move was going to mean.

Actually, he'd known things were brewing, especially after Thursday evening's deacons' meeting. Some opposition to Gary had begun to surface ...

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