Hi
How do we address hurts resulting from ministering to others? Let’s mull on that as we chew on today’s Holy Nougat™
As soon as Jesus heard the news, he left in a boat to a remote area to be alone. But the crowds heard where he was headed and followed on foot from many towns. Matthew 14:13 NLT
The news Jesus received was of John the Baptist’s beheading. John was Jesus’ cousin, predecessor and baptiser. While there’s not much details about the degree of closeness they may have shared, we recognize that by going off in the boat, Jesus was seeking to process such news. Perhaps even reconcile with the reality that HE would be next.
And even in His aloneness, the crowds were with him. [It just struck me that it was as tho Jesus was a celebrity being tracked by fans and paparazzi]
Interestingly enough, Jesus didn’t don disguises or hide from the crowd. He didn’t send them back home or reprimand them for disturbing His solitude. Rather, the verses which follow indicate that he met their needs.
Ministry comes with many a disappointment. In fact, it may even cost our life as we know it. We must process the disappointments – that’s what Jesus did. And then there are the needs which require our attention. We might have to put aside some hurts and disappointments in order that God’s mandate is fulfilled through us. Not easy.
Do we take time to grieve when wronged? Do we let go of the petty hurts inflicted upon us in ministry? Or do we cling to them like cloaks, taking the pain with us wherever we go? [Ouch, doesn’t feel so nice remembering] Let’s choose today to mourn the hurts of yesteryear and move on.
Not easy. But expected.
In Christ’s love and grace . . .
