I don't want to step down into the pulpit

Every once in a while I am asked a certain question. Here are a few versions of it...

When do you think you will look for your own church?

How long until you will be a pulpit minister somewhere?

When will you move up into the pulpit?

My answer, depending on who I am talking to, goes something like this...

I really don't feel called to move into that role. In all honestly, I would consider pulpit ministry a step down. This is no offense to pulpit ministers. I work alongside one of the best preachers I have ever known. But for me personally, any other ministry would require me to step out of my calling.

I believe that the ministry I am engaged in is the most important one there is. (Ok, maybe Dana's ministry to families with children is a really, really close second.) ;-)  But, I believe that God has positioned me to have an impact at a crucial time in the lives of these teenagers. In a world where brokenness surrounds us and pain has become commonplace for many students, God has uniquely allowed me to help families who are hurting.

Parents are hurting. Teens are hurting. Families are often struggling, and often hiding it too.

I don't have all the answers, but I am blessed by the fact that God uses this imperfect pilgrim to speak into the lives of families with youth. I am blessed that God has equipped me for this ministry. I am blessed that God makes it possible for me to do this as a full-time profession. I get paid to do what I love to do. How many people can say that?

Sure, there are plenty of people around me who live in bigger houses, drive nicer cars, and have more than I do, but I can do without all of that as long as I have a relationship with God, my wonderful partner, Michelle, my incredible son, Matthew, and the knowledge that what I am doing makes a difference in the Kingdom of God. You can never put that in a 401(k), but a 401(k) doesn't give you peace and purpose anyway.

And that is why I do what I do...

shine!
Jason