“What are three non-negotiable principles upon which I base my pastoral ministry?”
- Humility
- Listening
- Grace
The scripture says Jesus knew who he was, where he came from and where he was going. This is the foundation of humility. We cannot serve humbly if we feel the need to constantly defend and explain ourselves. Knowing that we are children of the Father and having a sense of our own history and destiny gives us the freedom to be who we truly are. Humility keeps us from getting overly self-absorbed.
The ministry of listening must be rooted in humility. If we are willing to listen to those above us and those below us, God will always have something to say through them. We must meet the challenge of listening without rushing to our agenda for that moment. If we feel that those in authority above us are unsuitable, we stop listening. If we feel that someone is below us, we are tempted to stop listening or hear what we want to find fault.
Isaiah said the Messiah would not break a bruised reed or snuff out a smoldering wick. That would be grace. If I do not practice grace in my ministry to others, I lose sight of what it means to be a pastor. Jesus takes a ‘bruised reed’ and binds it up. He adds support to sustain the life in that person. The one who has lost their fire is not snuffed out, but nurtured back to flame.
It is my prayer that New Song Church will embrace these qualities in greater measure. This three-fold braid makes for a strong rope. Humility, listening and grace – that ought to pull a big load.
