Dear ______: Here’s the thing: in the end you have to choose. It is time for setting sail. You might be St. Francis, choosing after a direct message spoken by Christ. You might be a disciple, choosing based on what you think will best serve the kingdom. And then again, you might not have the slightest hint of […]
Letters to a Young Pastor: What to Do at a Fork in the Road
Dear ______: Yes, I suppose it is hard to just set aside your feeling that hearing God’s call is kind of scary. You’ve come to a fork in the road. You must choose. You might get it wrong. What is the worst thing that could happen? Yes, sometimes there are serious consequences. In my first computer programming class […]
Letters to a Young Pastor: Guidance and God’s Character
Dear ______: Yes, I suppose it does sound like I’m making my theological judgment based on personal taste. I said that thinking God has a specific plan for each step of your life makes faith feel like a tightrope walk. I admit, it is my own metaphor, rather than something from Scripture. I do think it […]
Letters to a Young Pastor: A Reformed Approach to Divine Guidance
Dear ______: Yes, I agree, it would be awfully nice if God would speak up more often and give direct answers to our questions — like whether you are called to ministry. Most of us want divine guidance. We all face serious struggles and deep confusion at times. And it isn’t like God doesn’t care […]