We invited several pastors to reflect on “road signs” they’re seeing in their ministry and here’s what they had to say:
Runaway Vehicles Only
Reflection by: Ben Johnston-Krase
“You’re speeding downhill with more weight than you can possibly manage. In a death-defying moment, you realize that the only safe road is overgrown, uphill, underused, and utterly terrifying. But it’s actually safer than staying on the highway, so off you go. I think people are waiting for more runaway churches.”
Do Not Drive Through Standing Water
Reflection by: Esta Jarrett
“From Progressive Insurance: Do’ not drive through standing water on roads or in parking lots. The average automobile can be swept off the road in 12 inches of moving water, and roads covered by water are prone to collapse. Attempting to drive through water also may stall your engine, with the potential to cause irreparable damage if you try to restart the engine. If you come upon a flooded street, take an alternate route.’
We’ve got to be in ministry collaboratively, or not at all. Listen to the stories of people smarter and more experienced than you (or at the very least those who love you) and learn from them, or you may get overwhelmed before you realize it. Burnout and depression are real. If you try to go at this alone, you can and will stall, and possibly cause irreparable damage to yourself or others. Being cautious and slowing down isn’t failure – it’ll save your life in the long run.”
I Can’t Drive 55!
Reflection by: Barrett Payne
“Whenever I see the speed limit sign ’55,’ I can’t help to go back to the 80’s and me lounging in my parent’s basement, watching MTV and singing along with Sammy Hagar –’I can’t drive 55!’ There are many aspects of my life where I move through quickly especially at the church. I like to go to scripture and quickly look at the one word that pops up for the sermon this week, I like to move quickly through session meetings, I like to speed up the new idea we heard in Bible study. Perhaps I am always trying to keep up with what God is doing next. Scared I am going to miss the next thing. This sign reminds me that I can’t keep up. That I have to slow down and let the Holy Spirit work each week as I prepare for a sermon, let Jesus be the head of the church, allow session to discern properly and leave room for ideas to grow organically. Maybe for me 55 is the right speed. Fast enough to keep the church moving forward but slow enough to see and experience God at work now. “
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