It's high, holy, and hard! Fall 2003

ARTICLE TOOLS

Find similar articles Email this page

Two years ago, I was grappling with uncertainty. I had served nearly 20 years in full-time ministry, the last seven as senior pastor of a thousand-member church. Whether it was just the seven-year itch or post-D.Min. depression (the degree work had left me exhausted), or whether I was intrigued by the possibility of a teaching post opening for me, I found myself wondering if it might be time to move on to a new, and perhaps more satisfying ministry.

At a conference I heard Harry Heinz, who pastors in Brunswick, New York, say that he'd shepherded the same people for 27 years, almost as intimidating to me as my immediate predecessor's 31 years.

"How can you stay someplace that long?" I asked him.

Harry replied, "You know, I've experienced four distinct calls, all to the same place." He explained that in addition to his initial call, at specific transition points in his life and ministry—the need to enlarge his ministry team, perceived pressure to begin a building program—he had sought, and received God's confirmation that he was called to minister in the same place.

What an insight! I thought, That's where I am. My unrest is a reaction to the transitions I'm passing through. I was dealing with three significant transition points. In addition to D.Min.-related fatigue, I had guided my church to reckon with the sexual misconduct of a former associate pastor. It was horrendous, and although I'd led the church through the experience, the aftermath had left me asking, "Is this what the Lord called me here to do? Is it time to let somebody else take over?" Finally, on top of that, I faced the prospect of marriage, a huge transition for a single woman in ...

Like the preview? To read this complete article and 26,671 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: 2-for-1 Deal. Two powerful resources for 1 great price! A 1-Year Membership to CTLibrary & a 1-year print subscription to the magazine of your choice! Enjoy your first 7days online FREE! Only $49.95 1-Year Membership Plus your first 7 days are FREE! You won't be charged until after your free trial. Only $49.95 1-Month Membership Includes automatic renewal each month. Only $9.95 1-Year for Print Subscribers Special offer if you are currently a print subscriber to Christianity Today, Leadership Journal, or Books & Culture. Only $29.95 first year Brought to You by Christianity Today		FREE e-Newsletter! Even if you're not a member you can take advantage of the free "CT Library" twice monthly e-newsletter! Sign up today for the FREE e-newsletter! All fields required. Full Name: Zip Code: Email Address:   Note: Members also automatically receive this free e-newsletter.