“Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke, encourage – with great patience and careful instruction.” (2 Timothy 4:2 NIV)
Ordination season is upon us. Every year at District Council, pastors gather and pray over new candidates as their call is publicly affirmed. For me personally, it’s an annual opportunity to re-up, to affirm my commitment to answer the call in every way possible.
This text evokes images of ordination; it’s read aloud and prayed into at every ordination service I’ve ever attended. I can easily picture my husband’s service twelve years ago, then mine only six years back. And if I *really* stretch, I can retrieve the memories of my mother’s. It was a beautiful June day and she looked radiant in her robe. My grandparents were in attendance. I cherish the recollection.
Preach the word.
Paul is so forthright with young Timothy. Don’t preach opinion or extra revelation or popular thought. Preach the word. What a reminder for all those who step into the pulpit on a regular basis! Paul goes on. Pastors are to be prepared, patient and prudent.
Prepared. This isn’t limited to Sunday service, but all weekday encounters, as well. The pastor preaches always, and sometimes with words. How can we align our actions and attitudes with an Almighty God? Through daily immersion in the Word and continuous conversation with the Lord. Pastors have an every day obligation to scriptures and to prayer. We cannot possibly be prepared for gospel-centered interactions in a fallen world apart from these two habits. It is only in circadian rhythms of prayer and study that we are properly equipped for pulpit duty, but also hospital calls, marriage counseling, crisis management, board meetings, budget decisions and Bible Study leading. Pastors prepare through personal devotions.
Patient. Pastoring requires patience. Our people will test our mettle, for sure. How are we refined? Through ever-deepening relationship with the Word but also the Spirit. Patience is a fruit that only the Spirit can produce. Patience is grown out the of the fullness of the Spirit flourishing in our frames. Are we lacking patience? Love? Joy? Peace or any of the other fruits of the Spirit? Focus on surrendering to Him. The growing presence of the Spirit increases our fruit production.
Prudent. This isn’t a word we employ much anymore. Prudent means wise or judicious in practical affairs. Sober or careful. These are all essential elements in pastoring. Prudent pastors know when to correct, rebuke or encourage, when to wait, when to speak and when to pray and let the Lord lead. (Hint: that last one is without ceasing.) Prudence is out of fashion in our crass culture, but still a critical character trait for pastors.
We can get worked up about this list, can’t we? Prepared, patient and prudent. I look at these traits and see a whole lot of ways I still fall short. But then I remember Moses, a man who was full of excuses yet God used him in extraordinary ways. If God calls us, He will also equip us. We merely require the humility to ask for His help.
“Now go, I will help you speak and teach you what to say.” (Exodus 4:12 NIV)
Lord, we are overwhelmed by the pedigree required for pastoring. Yet you call us. You enable us by Your Word and Spirit: educating and empowering. May we lean into Your strength as we acknowledge our weakness. Use us as You see fit. Amen.