January 1 began what I’m calling my early retirement. I’m not sure how long it will last, but that’s what I’m calling it right now. I can say it will last until churches either start booking me for preaching opportunities, I land an interim pastorate, or God sees fit to return me to a “permanent” staff role (nothing on earth is permanent).
Up until this week, I haven’t really had a chance to get a feel for what this new life will actually be. On January 3, I hopped in my car and drove to Jacksonville, FL to spend time with two of my oldest children who were on break from college. They don’t have a vehicle, so Dad had to drive to them. We had less than 24 hours with each other, but it did my heart good. They are serving the Lord and growing into fine people.
On my way out of Jacksonville, I stopped at a church where I could worship. It was well-rehearsed for the most part and everything was on cue. The pastor preached a great message from Colossians 3. Then I jumped back in the car to return to preach at a men’s recovery home at 7:00 pm. That service always has me on cloud nine.
The week would bring something I haven’t experienced in a while – three funerals. Here’s the funny thing – I said I wouldn’t sing again, just preach. I sang for all three funerals. Two of the funerals were connected with my most recent church, and the third funeral was connected to a hospice family I ministered to almost a decade ago. In all three situations, I was able to minister alongside former pastors who remain dear friends. It made me wonder if my new career was going to be singing for funerals. I guess time will tell. Either way, it was an honor to minister to these families.
This past Sunday was a treat. I drove to Georgia to attend a worship service. It is a church plant meeting in a high school. The pastor was affiliated with my previous church. I had heard him and his worship leader and wanted to experience their ministry in their context. It was a reminiscent mix of my attempt at church planting along with the casual feel of my last pastorate. Half the church slipped in well into the music. Two things were clear – the worship was in spirit and in truth, and the preaching exalted Jesus. The pastor gave me a backstage look at their new member orientation after the service, and I was able to catch up with him and the worship leader. My heart was full.
I made the hour and a half drive back home, only to attend two more services. One was at 4:00 and the other was at 6:00. Each service allowed me to experience Jesus and a reunion with friends.
While this season won’t last long, it is nice getting a chance to worship without the worries of all the mechanics. On the other hand, my calling will drive me back to doing what I can’t get away from. The devil wants to discourage me big time right now, but I have to remind him of the truth of scripture. God has His hand upon my life, and I will do exactly what God and God alone wants. Meanwhile, I must be content.
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