The Pastoral Grind

Photo Cred: CRCNA/crcna.org/synod (Originally written for The Baldwin Bulletin: Pastor's Column June 22, 2022) And have you forgotten the exhortation that addresses you as sons? “My son, do not regard lightly the discipline of the Lord, nor be weary when reproved by him. For the Lord disciplines the one he loves, and chastises every son whom he receives.” It is for discipline that you have to endure. God is treating you as sons. For what son is there whom his father does not discipline? If you are left without discipline, in which all have participated, then you are illegitimate children and not sons. Besides this, we have had earthly fathers who disciplined us and we respected them. Shall we not much more be subject to the Father of spirits and live? For they disciplined us for a short time as it seemed best to them, but he disciplines us for our good, that we may share his holiness. For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peacef

I originally wrote this for the congregation I serve in, but I know there are others who are interested in a summary and reflection of what took place at the CRC Synod 2022. Here are my thoughts... As I sit back in the parsonage on Saturday morning following Thursday’s adjourning of Synod 2022, I’m able to begin processing what took place over the last week. It is settling in that this meeting has finally happened and is finished! The last week has been tiring in every way possible. While I met more great brothers and sisters in the faith from across our denomination and had wonderful and encouraging conversations, there was great stress. Given the weighty matters, strong beliefs, impacts on people, local congregations, classes, and the denomination’s future, it was expected to be stressful, but reality was still greater. While I don’t like being away from our congregation for about three weeks, trust me when I say I’m glad I’m taking off for vacation, too. First, thank you! Thank you