Forced Out
WHEN I KNOCKED ON THE COUPLE'S massive oak door, a woman answered. Her husband was on the phone. Her bloodshot eyes signaled immediately that this might not be the routine one-hour pastoral visit I had planned. Rick and Becky were new to the church, and I wanted to get acquainted. "We almost canceled your visit tonight," she blurted. "Rick and I both lost our jobs this morning. Our boss came by at 9 a.m. and told us that due to corporate reshuffling 'for the good of all concerned,' our jobs were phased out as of today." The shock, she said, was superseded only by the company's lack of compassion—they had invested fifteen years in the company. Of no one in particular, Becky asked desperately, "And how can they possibly believe this reorganization was the best for everyone involved? Who do they think they are?" Too bad, I thought, that corporations can't handle terminations in a more Christlike manner. I stayed several hours, but before leaving, I cautioned them not to make any rash decisions and then knelt beside them, concluding with a prayer that would haunt me just a few weeks later. "Lord," I prayed, "help Rick and Becky to remain open to you during this difficult time. Give them patience to wait on you. Perhaps this is a time when you will lead them in a radically new direction." After the prayer I sensed our time together had given them hope. On my way out, we hugged, and they said, "God knew that we needed to keep this appointment with you tonight. Thank you for your encouragement." It was approaching midnight. As I drove home along the twisted, moonlit road, I quietly thanked the Lord for the providential visit. God would be faithful during this time of upheaval, I firmly believed, and it could be a time of significant growth ...
Like the preview? To read this complete article
and 18,013 more in the archive—JOIN NOW!
Easily find high-quality, well-researched materials that provide a Christian perspective on topics ranging from headlines to history.
Start using this invaluable tool TODAY for preparing your Bible studies, presentations, class lectures, sermons, meetings, and more.
|
It's easy and quick to join:
Brought to You by Christianity Today Int'l |  |
|
| 
Find similar articles
E-mail this page
