I am NOT left-handed. I have nothing against left-handed people. As a matter of fact, I would have preferred to play baseball left-handed. Or at least batted as a "lefty." I am right handed in everything I do. Well, that is, until I recently had surgery on my right arm and hand.
I had suffered for some time with tingling and numbness in both my hands. My right hand became much worse and began to wake me up during the night with a burning sensation. Whenever I talked on the phone or drove the car some distance, my hand(s) would go to sleep. When I tried doing some home repairs I would often drop whatever tool I was using. Writing letters and signing my name became somewhat painful.
So, after my stroke in November of 2018, I decided that it was time to get my hands checked out. Result: carpal tunnel in both, cubital tunnel in both, and trigger finger on the right hand (I'm still a pretty good shot with a handgun). Best option: Surgery! I decided to start with the right hand since it was the most damaged. Surgery procedure went well. I came home with it securely wrapped and in a sling. It was to remain wrapped for two weeks until my follow-up appointment to get the stitches out. I instantly became left-handed!
Being left-handed changed everything concerning my daily routine. Awkward and uncomfortable was the daily struggle. Eating, bathing, brushing teeth, and even writing some was just strange. I had to really think through what I was doing as nothing was automatic anymore. Over the two weeks I got pretty good using my left hand. Well, at least I could accomplish the needed tasks.
My follow-up appointment went well but it really hurt when they took the stitches out (and I am not a baby about such things). Bandage off, stitches out, and the right hand free. Free but not very flexible. Actually, very sore and swollen. Useable to a degree but therapy a must.
As we read the Bible, God brings to light changes He wants to make. A new way of thinking. A new way of doing things. This change can seem awkward at first and makes us really think and pray. After some time we become pretty good at following Him, not perfect but acceptable. God does surgery on our heart that can require some therapy (or practicing obedience). The more we line up with His way, the more our life is pleasing to Him. Don't let the struggle cause you to quit. Work through the pains of obedience.
In a few months I will have my left hand repaired. I know what to expect AND I will have a great right hand to get me through! I want to encourage you through the awkward frustrating times of life and growth. Things will get better and you will be whole again. Don't give up! Remember: the scars prove that healing has taken place!
From the Heart,
Pastor BR
Friday, March 15, 2019
Saturday, February 16, 2019
That Dog Will Hunt
I recently returned from the Grand National Bird Dog Trials in Grand Junction, Tennessee. This is a fantastic event where the top dogs compete over a two week period. Dogs have to qualify to even be considered for competition. These are expensive dogs that can make big money. No, I don't own such a dog! I just like to watch them run. Handlers, judges, owners, and the gallery are all on horseback.
It is truly amazing to watch these dogs work. There are two braces each day. Each brace lasts three hours. The dog runs for three hours sniffing out coveys of quail. They are highly trained and conditioned to "hunt" over various terrain covering some 28-30 miles. Longer than a marathon! Each "point" the dog makes is judged on many levels. The handlers are judged as well. Thankfully the gallery is NOT judged.
I have been going to these trials for almost twenty years. During that time I have seen dogs run in beautiful 60 degree weather as well as 15-20 degree snowy days. The heart of the dogs is truly a sight to watch. The dogs run two at a time and they can't wait to run. They are so excited about the hunt. Their noses are always searching for that familiar scent. They will bypass all other scents (hopefully) to find that specific smell that lets them know a covey is close. The dog that wins gets the most points that are productive and high quality.
This year I spent three days on horseback following these beautiful dogs in admiration of their abilities. I was thinking about the heart of these dogs and the heart of Christians. We have a "handler" that gives us directions on the path we should go. We have training. We know what we are supposed to be after. We face distractions and conditions that challenge our heart. We are encouraged to run the race and finish well. So how are we doing?
Do you give up easily? Are you distracted by other things that look so good and promise so much? Are you listening to the handler? Are you staying on the course? No all dogs finish their respective brace. Some run so far off course that they are disqualified. Some can't go the distance and stop short. Others may get "on point" but there are no birds. Some just don't pay attention to their handler!
How are you running this Christian race called life? I pray you will run like the champion God has made you. He has a prize for you greater than you could ever imagine!
From the Heart,
Pastor BR
I have been going to these trials for almost twenty years. During that time I have seen dogs run in beautiful 60 degree weather as well as 15-20 degree snowy days. The heart of the dogs is truly a sight to watch. The dogs run two at a time and they can't wait to run. They are so excited about the hunt. Their noses are always searching for that familiar scent. They will bypass all other scents (hopefully) to find that specific smell that lets them know a covey is close. The dog that wins gets the most points that are productive and high quality.
This year I spent three days on horseback following these beautiful dogs in admiration of their abilities. I was thinking about the heart of these dogs and the heart of Christians. We have a "handler" that gives us directions on the path we should go. We have training. We know what we are supposed to be after. We face distractions and conditions that challenge our heart. We are encouraged to run the race and finish well. So how are we doing?
Do you give up easily? Are you distracted by other things that look so good and promise so much? Are you listening to the handler? Are you staying on the course? No all dogs finish their respective brace. Some run so far off course that they are disqualified. Some can't go the distance and stop short. Others may get "on point" but there are no birds. Some just don't pay attention to their handler!
How are you running this Christian race called life? I pray you will run like the champion God has made you. He has a prize for you greater than you could ever imagine!
From the Heart,
Pastor BR
Friday, January 4, 2019
What's New?
Welcome to 2019!
Wow! Only 19 years ago we were dreading the Y2K projected events. Almost twenty years ago many thought the world would shut down. Great expectation but nothing major happened. Maybe a few minor "hiccups" but certainly not the end of time. So what are the expectations for 2019? What will be new?
I can only predict the past with some certainty but not the future. I look to the new year based on the promises from the Word of God. The challenges we face can be answered through His Word. Here are a few things I can be sure of:
1. If Believers don't get serious about discipleship, we will continue to lose ground in reaching this world for Christ. Every true believer is to be a growing disciple of the Lord Jesus Christ.
2. If the church doesn't get serious about its purpose and mission, it will continue to shrink in size and influence. As long as members consider things like attendance, tithing, missions, and worship as "optional" the church will continue to sacrifice its place in the world.
3. If Leaders in the church continue to fight for "their way" instead of God's design, people will continue to be hurt and leave the church. Staff and other leaders must be fully committed to the mission and purpose given to the church by God instead of their own agendas. The church will continue to be a social gathering until the staff and leaders get in tune with God and His Word concerning the church. Gathering a crowd is not the agenda of the church. Reaching the world through the Great Commission and The Great Commandment is!
4. The church is the only hope for the world as placed here by God. Terms like, "my church," "my way," "what I want," "the way I like it," should never cross the lips of true Godly leaders. When it becomes "your church" it ceases to be God's church.
5. If the church doesn't get serious concerning biblical leadership and holding leaders to the standard of scriptures, then the church will continue struggle. Overlooking biblical teachings and allowing compromise in leadership standards and conduct will continue to diminish the church. Being "ok" with practices of sin among leaders is deadly. Leaders should never be worshipped nor should they be treated with disrespect and dishonesty. Gossip kills.
I am very passionate about the church. I have spent my life serving the Lord Jesus through the local church. What I have seen and experienced in the local church is very disturbing. I still believe the church is God's great plan for reaching the world. It is through the church that His great Mission and Mandate are to be accomplished. It is time that the church follows the Word of God passionately, follows God appointed leaders respectfully, and serves sacrificially.
So "What's New?" I pray that the church becomes new and effective by returning to the Word of God in all ways. Jesus Christ loves the church and gave His life for the church to do His will. The church is His hands and feet. The church is His heartbeat for the world. The church is His and not ours. We SERVE a mighty God, we do not own Him! Maybe 2019 will see the emergence of the church as God has intended and designed. Prayerfully, the church will capture the attention of the world!
From the Heart,
Pastor BR
Wow! Only 19 years ago we were dreading the Y2K projected events. Almost twenty years ago many thought the world would shut down. Great expectation but nothing major happened. Maybe a few minor "hiccups" but certainly not the end of time. So what are the expectations for 2019? What will be new?
I can only predict the past with some certainty but not the future. I look to the new year based on the promises from the Word of God. The challenges we face can be answered through His Word. Here are a few things I can be sure of:
1. If Believers don't get serious about discipleship, we will continue to lose ground in reaching this world for Christ. Every true believer is to be a growing disciple of the Lord Jesus Christ.
2. If the church doesn't get serious about its purpose and mission, it will continue to shrink in size and influence. As long as members consider things like attendance, tithing, missions, and worship as "optional" the church will continue to sacrifice its place in the world.
3. If Leaders in the church continue to fight for "their way" instead of God's design, people will continue to be hurt and leave the church. Staff and other leaders must be fully committed to the mission and purpose given to the church by God instead of their own agendas. The church will continue to be a social gathering until the staff and leaders get in tune with God and His Word concerning the church. Gathering a crowd is not the agenda of the church. Reaching the world through the Great Commission and The Great Commandment is!
4. The church is the only hope for the world as placed here by God. Terms like, "my church," "my way," "what I want," "the way I like it," should never cross the lips of true Godly leaders. When it becomes "your church" it ceases to be God's church.
5. If the church doesn't get serious concerning biblical leadership and holding leaders to the standard of scriptures, then the church will continue struggle. Overlooking biblical teachings and allowing compromise in leadership standards and conduct will continue to diminish the church. Being "ok" with practices of sin among leaders is deadly. Leaders should never be worshipped nor should they be treated with disrespect and dishonesty. Gossip kills.
I am very passionate about the church. I have spent my life serving the Lord Jesus through the local church. What I have seen and experienced in the local church is very disturbing. I still believe the church is God's great plan for reaching the world. It is through the church that His great Mission and Mandate are to be accomplished. It is time that the church follows the Word of God passionately, follows God appointed leaders respectfully, and serves sacrificially.
So "What's New?" I pray that the church becomes new and effective by returning to the Word of God in all ways. Jesus Christ loves the church and gave His life for the church to do His will. The church is His hands and feet. The church is His heartbeat for the world. The church is His and not ours. We SERVE a mighty God, we do not own Him! Maybe 2019 will see the emergence of the church as God has intended and designed. Prayerfully, the church will capture the attention of the world!
From the Heart,
Pastor BR
Wednesday, December 26, 2018
In-Between Time
The time between Christmas and New Year's is a strange time, especially for a pastor. The excitement of Christmas programs, message, and music is over but the New Year hasn't begun. That last Sunday of the year seems odd.
All the gifts, lights, and celebrations around Christ's birth have begun to fade. Now the transition to New Years' resolutions (ie. promises we rarely keep) are on the horizon. I think Mary and Joseph had an "in-between" time. That time that follows all the glorious accounts of the Savior's birth, now everyone is gone except for Mary, Joseph, and the Baby. The shepherds are gone. The Wise Men really haven't shown up yet. The sky is no longer filled with Angels. Time for a new normal.
A new normal consisting of a husband and wife plus a new baby. Not just any baby, but God's promised child to the world from before the beginning of time. The noise of the shepherds and angels are now replaced with the cry of a baby, the sounds of caring for the child, and whispers between the parents as to what they will do next.
A time of reflection for sure. Seeing the hand of God protecting them as they journeyed. Mary and Joseph's needs met even while friends and family questioned the madness of it all. Mary is a new mother and Joseph is a new father: both for the first time! Nervous? Sure! Scared? Most likely! Determined? Absolutely!
God gives us "in-between" times for reflection and renewal. We can look back and see God's hand in so many ways. Times when we may have doubted or struggled are now times of refreshing. A time to renew ourselves to God's plan and God's truth. God uses all that we have walked through to make us ready for tomorrow. I've been through so much this past year. Some exciting times and some disappointing times. Times when I saw God moving and times when those close to me hurt me deeply. I got to celebrate new birth in the Lord in so many new christians and have some of the old faithful pass away. The joy of new friends and the sadness of those who turned their back.
But... God has a perfect plan! So in this "in-between" time, I pray to reflect and be renewed for the year to come. Let the excitement grow as God does His best work ahead. I guess "in-between" times aren't so bad after all!
Blessings,
From the Heart
Pastor BR
All the gifts, lights, and celebrations around Christ's birth have begun to fade. Now the transition to New Years' resolutions (ie. promises we rarely keep) are on the horizon. I think Mary and Joseph had an "in-between" time. That time that follows all the glorious accounts of the Savior's birth, now everyone is gone except for Mary, Joseph, and the Baby. The shepherds are gone. The Wise Men really haven't shown up yet. The sky is no longer filled with Angels. Time for a new normal.
A new normal consisting of a husband and wife plus a new baby. Not just any baby, but God's promised child to the world from before the beginning of time. The noise of the shepherds and angels are now replaced with the cry of a baby, the sounds of caring for the child, and whispers between the parents as to what they will do next.
A time of reflection for sure. Seeing the hand of God protecting them as they journeyed. Mary and Joseph's needs met even while friends and family questioned the madness of it all. Mary is a new mother and Joseph is a new father: both for the first time! Nervous? Sure! Scared? Most likely! Determined? Absolutely!
God gives us "in-between" times for reflection and renewal. We can look back and see God's hand in so many ways. Times when we may have doubted or struggled are now times of refreshing. A time to renew ourselves to God's plan and God's truth. God uses all that we have walked through to make us ready for tomorrow. I've been through so much this past year. Some exciting times and some disappointing times. Times when I saw God moving and times when those close to me hurt me deeply. I got to celebrate new birth in the Lord in so many new christians and have some of the old faithful pass away. The joy of new friends and the sadness of those who turned their back.
But... God has a perfect plan! So in this "in-between" time, I pray to reflect and be renewed for the year to come. Let the excitement grow as God does His best work ahead. I guess "in-between" times aren't so bad after all!
Blessings,
From the Heart
Pastor BR
Friday, December 7, 2018
Christmas
Last night Charlene and I attended the Michael W. Smith Christmas concert. One of our sons gave this opportunity as a Christmas gift. We had a wonderful time listening to some of the old Christmas music from our era. It was such a great evening to spend together.
I love Christmas. The lights, sounds, and smells are so unique to this time of the year. The crisp air, leaves falling, and the changing of the landscape is beautiful (except when I lived in south Florida and it was still very warm!). Christmas is a time of expectation. Families get together to share a meal and stories of bygone years. There is just something unique about Christmas.
I have heard it said that, "Christmas is a time when you spend money that you don't have to buy for people you don't like and presents they don't need!" I am sure that is not the case. It is a time to show our love to family and friends. But there is one gift that rises above all other gifts. It is a gift that could only be given by One being. A gift that could only be wrapped in a special adornment. A gift that would last for all eternity and be available to everyone. A gift that would meet the deepest need of all who would receive it. The precious gift of God's Son, Jesus Christ. The Savior of the World.
I imagine that on Christmas Day all the gifts under the tree are given out and opened. I dare say that not a single gift is neglected. Or is it? God has given His greatest gift but many leave it unopened. Some say they will consider opening it in the future when they have time. Others may say that they just can't deal with this gift at this moment. Many don't trust in the gift or even believe it is a true gift from God. And still others deny that there is even a gift there at all. And yet, sitting there is the greatest gift wrapped in God's love for every person.
So the gift is left unopened. It waits for a willing receiver to take it in their hands and unwrap the gift of eternal life. All through the year the gift remains unmoved, undisturbed. Throughout the coming year people walk by the gift and think about it. They may even pick it up and shake it a little. Tempted to remove the bow and tear the wrapping but gently putting it down for another time. The gift doesn't spoil or lose its value. It simply sits and waits.
Maybe this year you will open the greatest gift of all. It might be that you share this great gift with others. Help them take it in their hands and gently unwrap the future of their life. It could be that God uses you to pre-sent the present. Introduce someone to God's greatest gift. I heard it said that God's greatest gift is wrapped in a person!
From the Heart,
Pastor BR
I love Christmas. The lights, sounds, and smells are so unique to this time of the year. The crisp air, leaves falling, and the changing of the landscape is beautiful (except when I lived in south Florida and it was still very warm!). Christmas is a time of expectation. Families get together to share a meal and stories of bygone years. There is just something unique about Christmas.
I have heard it said that, "Christmas is a time when you spend money that you don't have to buy for people you don't like and presents they don't need!" I am sure that is not the case. It is a time to show our love to family and friends. But there is one gift that rises above all other gifts. It is a gift that could only be given by One being. A gift that could only be wrapped in a special adornment. A gift that would last for all eternity and be available to everyone. A gift that would meet the deepest need of all who would receive it. The precious gift of God's Son, Jesus Christ. The Savior of the World.
I imagine that on Christmas Day all the gifts under the tree are given out and opened. I dare say that not a single gift is neglected. Or is it? God has given His greatest gift but many leave it unopened. Some say they will consider opening it in the future when they have time. Others may say that they just can't deal with this gift at this moment. Many don't trust in the gift or even believe it is a true gift from God. And still others deny that there is even a gift there at all. And yet, sitting there is the greatest gift wrapped in God's love for every person.
So the gift is left unopened. It waits for a willing receiver to take it in their hands and unwrap the gift of eternal life. All through the year the gift remains unmoved, undisturbed. Throughout the coming year people walk by the gift and think about it. They may even pick it up and shake it a little. Tempted to remove the bow and tear the wrapping but gently putting it down for another time. The gift doesn't spoil or lose its value. It simply sits and waits.
Maybe this year you will open the greatest gift of all. It might be that you share this great gift with others. Help them take it in their hands and gently unwrap the future of their life. It could be that God uses you to pre-sent the present. Introduce someone to God's greatest gift. I heard it said that God's greatest gift is wrapped in a person!
From the Heart,
Pastor BR
Thursday, December 6, 2018
President Bush 41
The country is saddened by the passing of President George H. W. Bush, our 41st president. While watching the funeral services held in Washington D.C., I was moved to hear of his leadership and character. While no person is perfect, I got the sense that he was a genuine man of faith. I am sure that many did not agree with all of his policies and decisions as a Republican president, but they cannot disagree that he was a man of great character and principal.
The world needs such men in leadership that will stand on principle even in the face of attacks. Men who understand the great call of God and will not compromise that call to please men. I am sure that many pastors suffer many attacks as they lead the church in God's plan. I doubt very seriously that the average church attender truly understands the call of a pastor as he serves the local church. The relationship between pastor and church is much different that any other within the church or the world.
Pastoring is not a job. Pastoring is a calling that touches every aspect of that man. The call grabs the very heart and soul of the pastor. The church is not a place to work, but rather, a place to invest the whole life and family. Pastoring is who we are and not what we do. Pastoring is the definition of who the man is and not just a title. With such an understanding, the words spoken to attack a pastor travels much deeper in his soul. They cause much deeper damage and scars then the average person realizes. Pastors are not perfect people by far. They are men with clay feet. They need the grace and forgiveness of God and people. They are imperfect people called to preach the awesome Word of God that is perfect. They are to speak on behalf of God to the church of today. Truly, there is no other position like it in the world, not even being the President of the Untied States.
Christians inside the church can hurt the church much more than lost people outside the church. And so God's Word reminds us to speak truth in love, watch our tongue, let our speech be uplifting and building up the Body of Christ, not tearing it down. The Bible reminds us that the world will know we are Christians by our love, not by our divisive words. People in the church will not always agree on things. But we should never view the church as "OUR" church. It is God's church that He died for. We serve Him through the church. It is His Bride. When it becomes "our church" it ceases to be His church. When we strive to get it just like "we" want it, we stray from the way God has designed for it to be.
The church is the ONLY hope for the world. We must be very careful to not loose sight of the purpose of the church. The Great Commission and The Great Commandment are the marching orders for the church. All we do and say should lead to fulfilling these two great commands from God. God has chosen fallible, imperfect men to lead His greatest gift to the world, His Bride, the church. Pastors have a great call and a great responsibility. They answer to God, the true owner of the church. Daily they seek His guidance and desires. Daily they are burdened for the condition of the church and the world. They truly understand that you cannot build the church by tearing down people but by lifting up Christ. Their heart is to see God do something wonderful in the heart of man. They desire to fulfill the Great Commission in their generation.
So, pastors be encouraged in the Lord. Your work is very important and ordained by Almighty God. You will not always be liked by man but you will always be loved by God. Your calling is significant to God's great plan for the world. He has chosen you. He is your defender and friend (Psalm 62). And your reward comes from Him. Love the church. Serve the church. Teach the church. Lead the church. And when called upon, suffer for the church. You will be in the great company of God! Presidents come and go every four to eight years. You are called for life. The difference you make will last for eternity. Presidential policies change but the Word of God lasts forever. God will lead you, guide you, and protect you. You can and must trust God. Stay faithful to the end. Stay in love with the Savior and never stray far from His cross!
From the Heart,
Pastor BR
The world needs such men in leadership that will stand on principle even in the face of attacks. Men who understand the great call of God and will not compromise that call to please men. I am sure that many pastors suffer many attacks as they lead the church in God's plan. I doubt very seriously that the average church attender truly understands the call of a pastor as he serves the local church. The relationship between pastor and church is much different that any other within the church or the world.
Pastoring is not a job. Pastoring is a calling that touches every aspect of that man. The call grabs the very heart and soul of the pastor. The church is not a place to work, but rather, a place to invest the whole life and family. Pastoring is who we are and not what we do. Pastoring is the definition of who the man is and not just a title. With such an understanding, the words spoken to attack a pastor travels much deeper in his soul. They cause much deeper damage and scars then the average person realizes. Pastors are not perfect people by far. They are men with clay feet. They need the grace and forgiveness of God and people. They are imperfect people called to preach the awesome Word of God that is perfect. They are to speak on behalf of God to the church of today. Truly, there is no other position like it in the world, not even being the President of the Untied States.
Christians inside the church can hurt the church much more than lost people outside the church. And so God's Word reminds us to speak truth in love, watch our tongue, let our speech be uplifting and building up the Body of Christ, not tearing it down. The Bible reminds us that the world will know we are Christians by our love, not by our divisive words. People in the church will not always agree on things. But we should never view the church as "OUR" church. It is God's church that He died for. We serve Him through the church. It is His Bride. When it becomes "our church" it ceases to be His church. When we strive to get it just like "we" want it, we stray from the way God has designed for it to be.
The church is the ONLY hope for the world. We must be very careful to not loose sight of the purpose of the church. The Great Commission and The Great Commandment are the marching orders for the church. All we do and say should lead to fulfilling these two great commands from God. God has chosen fallible, imperfect men to lead His greatest gift to the world, His Bride, the church. Pastors have a great call and a great responsibility. They answer to God, the true owner of the church. Daily they seek His guidance and desires. Daily they are burdened for the condition of the church and the world. They truly understand that you cannot build the church by tearing down people but by lifting up Christ. Their heart is to see God do something wonderful in the heart of man. They desire to fulfill the Great Commission in their generation.
So, pastors be encouraged in the Lord. Your work is very important and ordained by Almighty God. You will not always be liked by man but you will always be loved by God. Your calling is significant to God's great plan for the world. He has chosen you. He is your defender and friend (Psalm 62). And your reward comes from Him. Love the church. Serve the church. Teach the church. Lead the church. And when called upon, suffer for the church. You will be in the great company of God! Presidents come and go every four to eight years. You are called for life. The difference you make will last for eternity. Presidential policies change but the Word of God lasts forever. God will lead you, guide you, and protect you. You can and must trust God. Stay faithful to the end. Stay in love with the Savior and never stray far from His cross!
From the Heart,
Pastor BR
Sunday, November 25, 2018
The Next Chapter
I'll admit it has been a while since I last blogged. I have even taken a few blog postings down from my page. So much has happened in my life over the last few months. I'm not sure where to begin but here goes...
I am very passionate about the church and believe that it is God's plan to reach the world. I have served the local church for 38 years and still believe in the church. Recently, I suffered some health problems due to stress related issues concerning the church. It was very scary for me as I didn't fully understand what was going on. My doctors informed me that I was at a high risk for a stroke that could leave worse damage than what I had experienced. I was placed on a heart monitor for the next 30 days (oh what fun!). Their collective advice was for me to make some changes immediately. My children agreed. More importantly, my wife agreed. So, on November 11, 2018, I resigned my senior pastor position. It was a very tough decision. While I didn't resign from ministry, I did step away from the senior pastorate for the time being.
I decided to take my doctor's counsel and use the holidays to rest and restructure my life. While I'm not sure what specific ministries I will be involved in, I am trusting in God's plan. I am definitely continuing as a Secret Service Chaplain. I am planning on being available for pulpit supply preaching and maybe even an interim position in the new year. I have thought about picking up writing again. I'm seeking God's best for my life and for my family.
Through this experience I have been (and still am) learning a great deal. I am sure there will be many more lessons to learn. God doesn't waste an experience but uses them to grow us in His likeness. It has never been easy for me to slow down but I'm learning how. Part of me is very excited about this new adventure while another part misses serving as senior pastor. God will definitely fill any voids I may have. I can trust Him.
I do ask for prayers in seeking God's next step for me and my wife. She is such a godly woman and very encouraging as well as supportive. She is a true gift from God!
From the Heart,
BR Johnson
I am very passionate about the church and believe that it is God's plan to reach the world. I have served the local church for 38 years and still believe in the church. Recently, I suffered some health problems due to stress related issues concerning the church. It was very scary for me as I didn't fully understand what was going on. My doctors informed me that I was at a high risk for a stroke that could leave worse damage than what I had experienced. I was placed on a heart monitor for the next 30 days (oh what fun!). Their collective advice was for me to make some changes immediately. My children agreed. More importantly, my wife agreed. So, on November 11, 2018, I resigned my senior pastor position. It was a very tough decision. While I didn't resign from ministry, I did step away from the senior pastorate for the time being.
I decided to take my doctor's counsel and use the holidays to rest and restructure my life. While I'm not sure what specific ministries I will be involved in, I am trusting in God's plan. I am definitely continuing as a Secret Service Chaplain. I am planning on being available for pulpit supply preaching and maybe even an interim position in the new year. I have thought about picking up writing again. I'm seeking God's best for my life and for my family.
Through this experience I have been (and still am) learning a great deal. I am sure there will be many more lessons to learn. God doesn't waste an experience but uses them to grow us in His likeness. It has never been easy for me to slow down but I'm learning how. Part of me is very excited about this new adventure while another part misses serving as senior pastor. God will definitely fill any voids I may have. I can trust Him.
I do ask for prayers in seeking God's next step for me and my wife. She is such a godly woman and very encouraging as well as supportive. She is a true gift from God!
From the Heart,
BR Johnson
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