I have been pondering my life over the last seven months--we resigned in January, 2011 from an 18 year pastorate of our home church (attended there 30 years). This was THE SINGLE MOST DIFFICULT DECISION we ever made, believe me.
So how is it going for us? Lots of people ask us that. For the most part, good, but there are definite challenges that result from this move as with any life-altering decision. I want to share them with you in an edifying way. I am hoping by writing these few posts that I will be able to share some wisdom and encouragement.
THOUGHT NUMBER ONE: THE PRE-SEASON
After many years in ministry gradually we found ourselves with a hungering or unsettled feeling that wouldn't go away. After much prayer and thought, oceans of tears, arguments amongst ourselves in the family (just being honest :), hugs and encouragement, family discussions, counsel, prophetic words, dreams, and circumstances, we made the decision to resign. Keep in mind that we had no other jobs to go to, no education (our original denomination did not require a degree), no prospects for future employment, and we were both almost 50 years old. We were going to be leaving a position that had been among the most rewarding as well as at times the most frustrating things we had ever done.
So how is it going for us? Lots of people ask us that. For the most part, good, but there are definite challenges that result from this move as with any life-altering decision. I want to share them with you in an edifying way. I am hoping by writing these few posts that I will be able to share some wisdom and encouragement.
THOUGHT NUMBER ONE: THE PRE-SEASON
After many years in ministry gradually we found ourselves with a hungering or unsettled feeling that wouldn't go away. After much prayer and thought, oceans of tears, arguments amongst ourselves in the family (just being honest :), hugs and encouragement, family discussions, counsel, prophetic words, dreams, and circumstances, we made the decision to resign. Keep in mind that we had no other jobs to go to, no education (our original denomination did not require a degree), no prospects for future employment, and we were both almost 50 years old. We were going to be leaving a position that had been among the most rewarding as well as at times the most frustrating things we had ever done.
We raised our chidlren in this church, we buried two parents and other beloved friends from this pulpit, we led people to the Lord here, we cried tears with countless folks, we dedicated babies including our children and grandchilren, baptized believers, performed weddings, laughed, cried, and lived, declared the Word of God and sang His praises--all from this place. This was a BIG move, this was SCARY. Only a definite sense of God's leading was enough to move us out of this position. I wouldn't recommend it on any lighter direction. One of my favorite teachers speaks of a time in his life when he was in serious financial straits and says something like this, "It makes a great testimony if you live through it!" That's kind of how I feel about this transition.
So why am I now a FORMER pastor's wife? Well, my husband and myself are still ordained, but not currently "PASTORING" a congregation. He serves voluntarily as a hospital chaplain, retains his position as pastor to a couple of friends in their para-church ministry, continues to serve as the president of our county's jail chaplaincy board and preaches wherever and whenever asked.
Stay tuned for more on these thoughts.......Blessings, LORI
Will be interesting to follow your faith walk though this Lori. Have been there more than once and KNOW that when God closes one door He has another one waiting in the wings which can often be something we would never have dreamed of.
ReplyDeleteWe never 'give up' we only 'gain' in whatever sphere God has planned for us. Blessings and prayers.