Something absolutely terrible happens to pastors as they begin to lead a church. It is not intentional or conscious, but it happens in the most subtle way. We forget that what Jesus said to Peter and Andrews also applies to us: “Come, follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.” We somehow forget that the Great Commission doesn’t just mean make the disciples better disciples, but make new disciples.

I was reminded of this recently when a mother and son set up an appointment to meet with me because of some problems they were having. They were not in the church, and they were clearly not Christians. I have to confess, my first thought was, “I don’t have time for this,” and, “This is a distraction.” After all, I have a sermon to prepare, I have a staff meeting to go to. I have a blog to write.

Thankfully, as they walked in I woke up. God, this is not a distraction. This is exactly what I am called to do. It ought to be my chief delight to listen to people’s problems and have the privilege of sharing the gospel.

God, give me a passion for the lost. May I always have some outlet, some area of my life where I have the opportunity to talk with, and listen to, others with different beliefs. And may I not shrink back from sharing with them the love of Christ. And God, may my church not only encourage me to do so, but join me in it as well!