I am not a writer. I never have been and it takes great effort for me to write. I love to research, study and learn. I am comfortable speaking in public and public speaking is my primary means of communicating what I have learned. A Blog is a tremendous commitment on my part because I am out of my comfort zone. Over the years, this Blog has taken a backseat, but I am hoping to change that this year. I am going to make a commitment to try to post at least twice a month on what I am learning and observing in ministry. My personal goal is every week, but I am also a realist because my pastoral ministry must come first.
I came to my current ministry in 1992, so that means I have preached and ministered in the same place for 21 1/2 years. I have seen the good and the bad in ministry. I have experienced joy and sorrow. I have been loved and hated. I am not seeking another ministry and am hoping God allows me another 25 years here.
I am often asked what keeps you in a place for a long period of time. So for the next few weeks, I think I will try to figure that out. One of the things that helped me was focus. I have been at many pastor meetings where they ask pastors to stand who have been at the same place for 5 years, then, 10 years, then, 15 years, etc. I was at one meeting where they got to 50 years and one man was standing. I noticed many sat down before 10 years. It has always been my dream or focus to be last man standing. One of my idols in ministry was a man who was the pastor at the same church for almost 40 years.
One of the things I have observed in life is that focus determines direction. I think it is essential for long term ministry.
THOT – What is the focus for your ministry?
An important focus for me in long term ministry has been the goal to be “Last Man Standing”.
