Our work here at the Mission requires most of us to deal with more crises in one day than many pastors deal with in a month. Some of the Pastors reading this blog may question that statement, but having been a pastor for many years I say it without fear of contradiction. With over 450 people in our care each night and serving meals to hundreds more who are struggling with addiction, homelessness, medical issues, bi-polar, legal issues, prostitution, abuse, etc. the sheer number of overwhelming problems we face is amazing. How do you keep sharp and avoid burnout?
Here’s what I challenge all of you to remember each day to help you stay sharp and to keep focused and motivated on helping reach the hurting, hungry and lost of your community:
Matthew 11:28-30 “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
Remember to put your concerns and burdens in the hands of the Lord. There is nothing we can accomplish outside of Him and there is nothing we cannot accomplish if we are working in His will. I believe that EVERY problem has a spiritual solution.To all our staff I remind you to rely upon the power and joy of the Lord today to make a difference.
David
Interesting. I just spoke with one of our graduates last night who has fallen on hard times because of health issues. I continued to stress about the love God provides even when times like these “pop-up”. We said a prayer and it is my belief it made matters better. It seems when we get hit in the “gut” with the reality of life, we tend to forget who gave us life to begin with. The most interesting aspect of the ministry we perform is – We are always turned on to deal with the folks we LOVE to serve. Great article David.
Even though I have little direct contact with clients I do find this important in my own life. Sometimes I start to feel overwhelmed, and then I remember the old song….
“What a friend we have in Jesus, all our sins and griefs to bear; what a privilege to carry, everything to God in prayer. Oh what joy we often forfeit, oh, what needless pain we bear; all because we do not carry, everything to God in prayer.”
I think of the old hymn…
“Are there trials and temptations? Is there trouble anywhere? We should never be discouraged, Take it to the Lord in Prayer”
Are we weak and heavy laden, burdened with a load of care? Jesus knows our every weakness, Take it to the Lord in Prayer!”
We are our brothers keeper … the Jesus in you, the Jesus in me- the commitment and agreement in Him works out the yoke of His grace and mercy … I have learned that burnout comes when I unwillingly place “self” ahead of His will…. the thing is are we humble enough to know our condition before it manifests itself out?…good word David.
AMEN.