Sometimes I feel just because we are ex-officers it may appear that we are no longer useable, available or even approachable! Because we are no longer wearing red, that does not automatically indicate we are not still called or available for ministry. Why is there such a gulf fixed from the pulpit to the pew? Is it our own making or is it that others are not sure how to treat us? Maybe there are times our congregational leader(s) may feel uncomfortable and rather than check on our status, would find it easier to just ignore us. Is that the situation for anyone?
Initially my "Pulpit to Pew" transition from red on my shoulders to nothing or even blue was an emotional and sometimes almost a phsychologicall roller coaster experience. I did resign from Officership of my own free will, it was my choice but I was still called and very much aware of that. However, the thoughts, feelings and treatment was everything from frustrating, challenging, and even upsetting at times. Maybe the thoughts and feelings were self induced, but certainly not always.
For those who may be just experiencing the transition, take heart, time does help heal some of the transitional experiences. But let me encourage you speak up and share with colleagues and even through the FSAOF on FACEBOOK. Don't box yourself in and feel alone.
In these days, fortunately I find myself being very appreciative. To a large degree I am truly blessed and able to, a degree at least, still fulfill my calling. I have been hired part time as a Lay Pastor . Wearing blue and not red on the shoulders, but for me "once called, always called", so if it is blue or red, God has opened doors for me and I am truly grateful. Even though the hours are few, the blessings are numerous and rewarding. God has been blessing the work and the joy of ministry is just wonderful.
So if you are in the Pulpit and thinking about being in the pew? Think again! Be sure you are ready and really know the pew is where you need/must be. Personally, I don't think I was ever, nor will I ever be ready for full time pew occupancy. The grass is not always greener on the other side of the fence. Weeds still grow there, maintence and hard work with all the stress is still a factor. But know, truly know that God is faithful be it pew or pulpit; He still reigns.Blessings one and all.
Former (name on file)
Newfoundland
CANADA
4 comments:
Former, Newfoundland ... thank you!
A good number of years ago I recall inviting a 'former' to conduct a YP weekend at the Corps I was stationed at. I was well aware of his 'need' to resign but nevertheless believed he still had/has a ministry to give. Still today, I remember what he chose as his theme that weekend: 'Gospel of the Second Chance'. I sat there feeling protective towards him and thinking he was telling his own story and wanting him to be careful for his own sake. God obviously had other ideas in mind. I can still picture the scene at the end of our Sunday together as the mercy seat was lined over and over and over again by young and old alike as they came for that second, third, ninety nineth chance. God honoured his honesty, ministry and I have no doubt that of thousands like him too.
God bless and continue to use you real good!
Active UKT
Perhsps there are others who have visited this site and have wondered, pondered, consider or even felt that there is a certain officer personality type that begins to germinate once that an officer (single) or officers (married officer couples) are appointed to HQ? And that personality type is the "I Have Arrived" personality/attitude.
Just exactly what is in the HQ water anyway? Often times it's not holy water.
Moving from the pulpit to the pew has been refreshing. I have opportunity to preach from time-to-time. Perhaps that satisfies my need to preach - which I relish. Since I never left ministry - I teach at a Christian Liberal Arts University that attracts many non-Christina students - I feel I did not leave my calling only shifted focus. I believe the Army creates an unrealistic idea of calling. Jesus is quite clear in His call when He says, "follow Me." Why do/did we relegate ministry or ministering to the vocation of pastoring/preaching exclusive of the universal call to follow Christ? Perhaps it is time to rethink the exclusiveness and relegation of "the call" to officership, preaching, or pastoring. There are millions of people who minister in vocations considered secular in nature, yet who are expressly obedient to the Great Commission.
'Formers', you are invited to visit the FB FSAOF site if you haven't done so for a while.
On the recommendation of the Chief of the Staff we are compiling a list of concerns that The SA ought to address that relate uniquely to former officers. The Chief responded to a message addressed initially to the General, and it was suggested we make contact directly with the TCs in the 11 territories in which our 200+ fellowship members live and work.
Your input is most welcome. You'll find a thread (LETTER TO SA LEADERSHIP) where comments are being shared.
Post a Comment