Interesting Group of Folks

Yesterday I was invited to an area pastors lunch. If you read this regularly you know how much I love the pastors lunches. Well it seemed like a good way to meet some of the other pastors in our town. And indeed it was. I was truly glad that I went. You might think my perspective on these gathering is changing, but so far no shift, I will keep you posted though.

It was cool to sit around a table with us two AG boys, a Baptist pastor, two Presbyterian pastors, a non-denominational guy, two catholic pastors, a city chaplain who is a member of The City Church and his apprentice who is currently an emt with Redmond Fire Department. OOps, I almost forgot my friend who is a four square dude. In this mixed group there was a brotherhood and camaraderie that is uncommon. Jesus was the center of attention, not a particular church or denomination. Jesus. Imagine that, a group of pastors from different churches and denominations who are all driven by the mission of Jesus to redeem the lost of this world. It was good.

I was quite. But I was glad I went.

One of the guys opened up by sharing that TONIGHT his church is voting whether to dissolve or not. That's right, just close the doors and walk away. I could see the hurt in his eyes, I could see the exhaustion in the way he sat in his chair and carried himself around the room. My heart truly broke for my new friend as he explained the issues that have brought them to this point. There was such a depth of hopelessness in his voice. Not hopeless about Jesus, the community, the individuals or himself, but for this small church he has been pastoring for three years. His heart was broken, and mine broke with him.


I was glad for him that he had a room full of people who truly care about him, the church and how they can help both through the process.