Pastor James Conley

Last month I talked about Holy Week as it was right upon us.  Now a month later we are moving   into my favorite month of the year, May.  It could be due to it being my birthday month?  And yet, I have several other reasons for enjoying this month.  Mother’s Day and Memorial Day are celebrated as are many graduations. 

I think I am partial to May as it was always the time of year that school was finally over.  I was  mostly an above average student, but never one that needed higher achievements in academics.  I always understood that life itself was the classroom.  I pray that you hold this understanding too.  I have never stopped learning and that is the core of this Pastor’s Heart article.

Are you continuing to be a learner?  I have a soft spot for learners.  Let me explain as a “learner” is a student and a student is a disciple.  They are not one who blames or expects others to cause their knowledge to grow.  They are self-starters.  People who see the cup as half-full not empty.  We are folks that take advantage of teaching, even poor teaching, to gain insight and understanding. 

Recently as I have been dismantling 30 years of books, magazines, and articles collected in my office.  I ran across several programs from the Global Leaders’ Summit offered by the Willow Creek Association.  Bill Hybels was pastor of Willow Creek Church that started this conference on leadership.  I thumbed through each one looking at notes I wrote down at each conference.  I kept a couple journals and the rest?  Yes, they went in the trash.  Now, at the time the information was exciting, fresh innovation, and cutting edge, but what I learned from “on the job” experience far outweighs the expert advise attained in the GLS conferences.

Trying new ways of communicating the good news, bringing out the best in leaders, and giving               opportunities for others to use their talents in ministry has been most beneficial.  In fact, today I have been asked to share in a worker’s new line at City Market.  She is in a new career field and wants to make a difference in our community.  I also have an appointment with a Medicare “expert” that is helping me sign up for benefits.  Later, this evening I will share a message (English) with the other elements of the worship being led in Karen language.

My hope and prayer is that which is found in Scripture, that everything I/we do will be done in love and every effort will be for Christ and his kingdom.  So, what are you learning?  Are you training for a new job or are you making sure that your skills are being put to good use?  Maybe you, like me, find yourself at a crossroads . . . having to decide on what to do next in life?  I find that stepping into a new chapter can create anxiety and be refreshing at the same time.

No matter what the outcome, I believe that the Lord will direct our steps.  The future is unknown and yet we can depend on the Lord to see us through come what may.  Be consistent in your faith journey and He will lead you through.  Take heart for the Lord your God is with you!