Psalm 40:10

As one of those clergy continuing to serve during the present national pandemic, it was gratifying to accept such a fine measure of appreciation for our efforts. Yet, the editorial lacked something.

It’s actually our distinct privilege to stand in the gap for God, for our flocks, and for our nation.

“I am doing a great work,” the Prophet Nehemiah declared in 6:3, when several who opposed his work repairing Jerusalem’s city walls invited him to take a party break, “so I cannot come down: why should the work cease, whilst I leave it, and come down to you?”

“I shall stand upon my watch,” the Prophet Habakkuk demands in 2:1, “and set me upon the tower, and shall watch and see what he shall say to me, what I shall answer when reproved.”

“And I sought for a man among them, that should make up the hedge, and stand in the gap before me for the land, that I should not destroy it.” Ezekiel 22:30

Did I mention that it’s our greatest privilege to “stand in the gap” for God? This bears often repeating! Faithful clergy are at their best when giving of themselves for others: to the least, the lost, the last, and the lonely. Now we additionally offer our pastoral portions toward the frightened, the bewildered, the scared and the scarred.

Jesus said in Luke 17:33, “Whosoever shall seek to save his life shall lose it; and whosever shall lose his life shall preserve it.”

Loving faithfulness is our mission, as the editorial writer wisely observed, “Our clergy bear the emotional pressure of the pandemic and they do so willingly because that is their calling.”
“…but he that shall endure to the end, the same shall be saved.”
Mark 12:13

Thank your clergy? “Fear not; little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.” Luke 12:32.

Thank you, Depews Chapel United Methodists, and all Kingsport-area Christian Churches, for your gift of acceptance!

Pastor Nate Ware, Depews Chapel United Methodist Church, November 8, 2020