Litmus Test

The day has finally arrived! Our adoption has taken longer than a full-term pregnancy, but Wednesday we got the e-mail saying that we were cleared to travel. We've set our travel time for three and a half weeks, but completing the adoption could take more time or less time. We're having to be flexible - and I've asked my congregation to the same.

The litmus test for any pastor is to be removed from a congregation and see if ministry thrives. There's only been so much that I could do to get ready for traveling. The preachers are lined up, the substitutes to teach and lead rehearsals are ready to go, and there are still a thousand things that I need to do in the next week - but I won't do everything. I've simply asked people to take responsibility to make things happen.

If you had asked me six to eight months ago if the congregation could handle me being gone for a month, I might have struggled with my answer. But in the past six months, we've seen tremendous spiritual growth, some numeric growth, and passion, zeal and determination. This congregation is remarkably resilient, and I truly believe the can make it happen. Not only do I think they can thrive without me, but I think they will be even stronger because of my absence.

Not every church could be like that - but not every church has people who have the passion and desire to "make it happen." You know, every time Paul planted a church, he didn't stay long; what he did do was train others to "make it happen." The church wouldn't simply sit there and stagnate - people stepped in and led the people so that they thrived and actively continued their mission. So, if you're a Timothy, make it happen!

I don't think that there's a need for a litmus test, though. The church isn't about me, and doesn't revolve around me. It centers on God; if it does that, and stays clear about its mission, then the church will simply be guided by the Holy Spirit to be fruitful. And that hope frees me to leave - and to return!