A reflection after 25 years of ministry

We're part of God's family.

Let me begin by addressing those who profess to be Christians - going to church, reading your bibles, and knowing church hymns, doesn’t necessitate a commitment to God, the church, or his word. It may suggest that your loyalty is tied to a tradition rather than to the risen Christ.

As a young minister, I assumed that everyone who went to church genuinely wanted to worship God and fellowship with believers. I believed Christians were excited and curious to study the bible. I soon realized this wasn’t always the case. I thought the spiritual lethargy that I saw in the churches was the result of traditionalism and when they got a fresh taste of God’s word their faith would be reinvigorated. Unfortunately, this wasn’t my experience. It seemed most were interested in upholding their traditions rather than growing in their knowledge of God. To make matters worse, to violate those ecclesiastical traditions would often lead to being fired under the charge of heresy. This environment was not conducive for spiritual growth. It created fear and, at times, anger. It was toxic!

This was discouraging to me. I loved my church, but their love for me was conditional. It was framed around certain theological positions that must be adhered to or else I could lose my job.

I haven’t seen a whole lot of changes within my denomination over my 25 years of ministry. In the past I considered leaving, but I felt the Lord hadn’t released me to do so. I now know why. Four years ago, I wasn’t looking for a church. I was self- employed and preached on Sundays for a small church in my area. Life was good. I was content.

As I said, I wasn’t looking for full-time pastoral ministry but by the grace of God I heard about a church in need of a minister. Because I was knew the former minister and some of his theological views, I decided to submit a resume, trusting that whatever the outcome, it would be in God’s hands. A week or so later, one of the elders called me. After a brief conversation, I knew right away this church was different from what I had experienced. I could tell he studied his bible and was well read. I was shocked! And when he mentioned Dallas Willard I knew this church was special. In time, I was able to meet all the elders. Each having a unique gift that helped the body to grow. This January I started my 4^th year as their full-time minister. This church, without question, is the best I’ve worked with. They are theologically curious, love and accept everyone, and have renewed my faith in the local assembly. I am so thankful that God brought us together.

The Christian/Church life isn’t easy. We need each other. We cannot unhinge ourselves from other believers and expect to grow in our faith. The Christian life was never meant to be lived in isolation. I need your love and support just like you need mine. Church, let’s step higher! As Christians, let’s love and care for one another as members of the same family. God has called us to live a life worthy of the gospel. Together we can and will make a difference – “Your kingdom come. Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven!” We are on this journey together ushering in God’s kingdom on the earth. I’m reminded of the old church hymn by Lanny Wolfe:

We're part of the family
That's been born again;
Part of the family
Whose love knows no end;
For Jesus has saved us,
And made us His own,
Now we're part of the family
That's on its way home.

When a brother meets sorrow
We all feel his grief;
When he's passed through the valley
We all feel relief;
Together in sunshine,
Together in rain,
Together in victory
Through His precious name.

Chorus:
And sometimes we laugh together,
Sometimes we cry;
Sometimes we share together
Heartaches and sighs;
Sometimes we dream together
Of how it will be
When we all get to heaven—
God’s family.

When a brother meets sorrow
We all share the tears;
And rejoice in each victory
In this family so dear;
We’ll all be together
In Heaven’s bright shore—
Though we’re part of the family
Here on earth evermore.

This is my prayer.

I pray that we fall in love with Jesus anew. I pray there will be a renewed interest in Bible study. I pray Christians will stop condemning other believers, and I pray that we become more like Jesus in word, thought and deed.

We’re part of God’s Family!

-O.B. III