As dually devoted pastors who serve in multi-vocational contexts, the approaching holidays can be overwhelming. The spoken and often unspoken expectations of others can paralyze us as we strive to make the holiday season special for those we serve. Comparing our efforts with larger churches that go “all out” during this time of year can seem daunting.
If you have been a multi-vocational pastor for long, you can relate to this struggle. But what if, instead of trying to be something we aren’t, we simply use what we already have and trust God with the outcome? Here are three key principles to consider:
1. Know Your Limits
As you navigate the multi-vocational dynamic, you will come to know your limits. If you are like me, you may tend to push those limits to the extreme, resulting in illness, exhaustion, and a depletion of energy. Functioning within what we know we are comfortably capable of leaves us with the resources needed to connect with family, friends, and fellow followers of Jesus.
2. Know Your Resources
I often think of God's interaction with Moses before the burning bush. Moses protested that he lacked the resources to convince God's people of his mission to lead them. God simply asked, “What do you have in your hand?” God can turn anything we have into something special. It’s not about what we have but about who we have.
As multi-vocational pastors or leaders, we may not have much to work with, which is why we are probably multi-vocational to begin with. But let me reassure you that you can bring something special to the people God has called you to lead. He can gift you with creativity to transform what you have into special moments for the holiday season.
3. Know Your Mission
As multi-vocational pastors, we can get so wrapped up in creating events that we lose sight of why we are doing them in the first place. It is better to do one event well than to fill the calendar with half-hearted and exhausting activities. The key is not busyness; there is already too much of that in our culture. Our aim is to know Jesus, make Him known, and develop relationships with those around us. Loving God and people is our mission.
Creating an Atmosphere
How do we create an atmosphere where this can happen? By providing opportunities, sharing meals, having fun, and worshipping and seeking God together. People will always remember the feeling of inclusion and interest in them, and it is in this space that the heart opens just enough for God to come in and work.
Remember, when Jesus came to earth as a child, it wasn’t with great worldly pageantry but with a heavenly proclamation of peace. Don’t fall into the trap of grand events; always aim for simplicity and service.
Merry Christmas Dually Devoted Leaders! May “God with us” be felt in your Holiday Season.
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