“The wise know what time it is and live accordingly” is both encouragement and excruciating as I look back on my own 26 years of making a living working in churches. I have so much joy in the church and hope for it now that my income isn’t tied to it. Please hear that being about me and no one else.
Wade, even if no one else reads this price you’ve written, I thank you for writing it if only for me. I needed this. I still wrestle with all of it, and your willingness to wrestle out loud is a healing agent this morning. Thank you, friend.
Thanks, Sam. I treasure those early years of ministry with you, and I am proud of who you are today. It was a joy to see your name as the first non-family subscriber!
Toiling under the sun. (And rain) I’ve done a lifetime of that. However people that have crossed and changed my path. Lynn Anderson, Kim Self, Wade Hodges, Jack Laird, give me joy just being able to call them friends and brothers. Toiling it may be but but how would we know joy without something to compare. Thanks for your words you have made my day better.
Thanks for reading, Jim. I'm loving how this is allowing me to connect with old friends. I have a story I tell in my sermons on servant-leadership about an elder/shepherd who refused to force his preferences on the church even though he had the positional power to do so. It's a story about you, because you never made it about you. You'll always be one of my favorite shepherds I've ever worked with.
Great thoughts, Wade. I'm glad you're staying. As one who did get out I can say that aside from the delicious Independence of not having to answer to everyone who can throw $2 in the collection plate, I miss it everyday. I, too, became convinced I was making no difference. But I certainly made a lot more difference while rowing inside the boat then I do outside the boat possessing an oar with nothing to row. Hang in there.
Wade, I am very thankful that God led you to continue preaching! You preach sermons that I think about for a long time and usually listen to them again. We will never know the impact we make on other lives. For me the interesting thing is the web our lives weave as God brings us in contact with others. I don’t believe our chance meetings are an accident. With love and prayers for you and Heather!
Very open and honest thoughts that I know will resonate with many who have worn preacher's shoes. Equally good insights and encouragements for anyone of any vocation. I appreciate your words, your work, and you generous embrace of fellowship. I pray blessing on you in this new season ... and many moments of Joy!
One of the highlights of my ministry over the past few years is getting to come north and meet you, Mike. I'd love to come that way again someday and hang out and talk about the writing life.
A great reflection with which many ministers can identify. Being of singular talent (and that questionable), I don't know what I would do with myself. I'm glad you're writing in a public forum like this and I look forward to what you have to share. This will encourage me to read Ecclesiastes with some fresh eyes!
I'm glad that you didn't give up. Thank you for your thoughts. I now work at that elementary school that was once our church, sometimes it feels like ghosts of us are around, I know that they are just my thoughts. Thank you for challenging us, I like the uncomfortable feeling of having my views expanded. My daughter is on a journey of being a minister. Yes, a woman, I will send her your writings.
Wade, I will always carry with me many of the messages that I heard of yours in 1999. That church in Bellingham, was formational in my first days as a Christian.
I remember the very first time I wandered in and the first sermon I heard. You preached that message about how you weren't going to change the culture of our meetings to suit the culture of the world, and that God's opinions were the only that really mattered.
I came back the next week, and you spoke about how we weren't going to make changes for the World, but we did need to be willing to make changes for Him. Any change. The following week, Mark Moeller stood up with his guitar and led us in worship. That has always stuck with me, as has some great messages on James. and others.
I am sure sometimes the seed you have scattered has maybe not born the fruit you have thought. But I sure do appreciate the seeds you invested in me. I trust that there is an abundance of Divine fruit on this planet that would not exist without your faithfulness to participate with Christ in obedience. So, thanks. And, excited to hear the results of your new endeavors!
John! That was so long ago. I can't believe you remember all of that. I do remember you when you first came to SDC. It's been amazing to watch your ministry grow over the years. Proud of you, brother!
Good hearing from you Wade. Look forward to reading your thoughts and thanks for sharing these helpful words. I was one of those that was wondering why Wade got back into preaching. ;) Stay the course friend!
This is really good Wade. I love this way of seeing the joy past the initial pessimism of Ecclesiastes. That is one book in the Bible that is really tattooed on your soul...and a bit on your personality. (I mean that in a good way).
I applaud your transparency and authenticity. If more believers were as honest, perhaps the reputation of Christ's bride would be somewhat less tarnished.
Are we hypocrites? Yes. Each of us is at some point. That does not dimish the Word. It confirms it! Does the Church and Church leadership make mistakes, commit sins, speak ineffectively? Yes. Yes. And, heck Yes. The Word said those things have been happening since the Church was called, the Israelites (skeptical - spend some time in Genesis, anywhere in Genesis). So, rather than apologize for your frailties, I hope this new chapter will see you lighter, encouraged by seeing that other preachers ahead of you have felt this burden, yet persisted, knowing their "time" was not being wasted. It was part of a plan that you now can see only dimly in those comments (bless them, to quote you).
I look forward to additional words from you, as one who has read only these thus far.
Remember the story of the little boy flinging the starfish back into the ocean. A man walking by saying, "Son, what are you doing. There are so many you will never make a difference." The little boy replied as he flung the next one back in the water, "I did to that one."
Thanks Wade, I've had these feelings before and would love nothing more than to go to another Church and just sit it out in the pews again. But once you've played in the game and have scored a touch down you can't just sit the bench anymore. I don't watch football on Sunday but I love the analogy. All heaven rejoices when one soul repents. Every knee did bow for Damahr in Jesus name. It humbles me to be filled with the Holy Spirit of Jesus and HIS love for others and how HE encourages me to try again. I can relate to the quote "I was almost out but they dragged me back in".
I work full time and devote as much of my free time to ministry in anyway possible. I found out how quickly you can get burned out not seeing any results. Planting seeds of Faith and expecting miracle growth. The thought of only going to Church for an hour on Sunday morning or just watching it online just seems like starving myself to death. OR if your plan is to get your only Bible reading done from hearing the Pastor on Sunday is like planning on having someone feed you for the rest of your life. And being unsatisfied with the service. Where else shall we go when you Jesus are the author of life and truth. I can see why Paul was saying you should be feeding yourself by now not still craving milk. Not everyone is equipped or gifted the same. In the garden some are just sprouting and others are in the their fall and winter seasons. Having done kids ministry and adult Bible study there is not much difference in the challenges of being an influence and example. Loving them to Jesus is how being overflowing with HIS Grace is all about. The race isn't over and we haven't heard well done good and faithful servant. Thanks Wade! I was almost out but you dragged me back in!
Thanks for sharing Wade. This was a very helpful read for me and very timely. Just last week I was wrestling with the question of whether or not my efforts were really worth much. Having served two wonderful churches, and having seen very little institutional growth in either, sometimes I struggle with the a lack of visible results, and wonder if it is just a matter of trying harder or working harder. But then I realize that is just a recipe for burnout and exhaustion. So this was a good reminder…work hard, enjoy the little moments that do sometimes come, and remember that futility is built into things and therefore one has to accept what one is given, even if we cannot yet see how the dots are connected in the big scheme of things. Thank you again.
Wade, that was a great series on Ecclesiastes, sometimes a head scratcher. What I wish you could hear are the many times someone in class says, “Wade said in one of his sermons…..”. I have good notes from lots of your sermons, but Gerald and Keith have good memories, and boy do they use your words to substantiate their thoughts. I look forward to reading more from you.
“The wise know what time it is and live accordingly” is both encouragement and excruciating as I look back on my own 26 years of making a living working in churches. I have so much joy in the church and hope for it now that my income isn’t tied to it. Please hear that being about me and no one else.
Wade, even if no one else reads this price you’ve written, I thank you for writing it if only for me. I needed this. I still wrestle with all of it, and your willingness to wrestle out loud is a healing agent this morning. Thank you, friend.
Thanks, Sam. I treasure those early years of ministry with you, and I am proud of who you are today. It was a joy to see your name as the first non-family subscriber!
Toiling under the sun. (And rain) I’ve done a lifetime of that. However people that have crossed and changed my path. Lynn Anderson, Kim Self, Wade Hodges, Jack Laird, give me joy just being able to call them friends and brothers. Toiling it may be but but how would we know joy without something to compare. Thanks for your words you have made my day better.
Thanks for reading, Jim. I'm loving how this is allowing me to connect with old friends. I have a story I tell in my sermons on servant-leadership about an elder/shepherd who refused to force his preferences on the church even though he had the positional power to do so. It's a story about you, because you never made it about you. You'll always be one of my favorite shepherds I've ever worked with.
Great thoughts, Wade. I'm glad you're staying. As one who did get out I can say that aside from the delicious Independence of not having to answer to everyone who can throw $2 in the collection plate, I miss it everyday. I, too, became convinced I was making no difference. But I certainly made a lot more difference while rowing inside the boat then I do outside the boat possessing an oar with nothing to row. Hang in there.
Thank you so much. I so often have weird thoughts about why I'm here and what if when I'm gone, I didn't hand any impact on anyone or anything.
This was really good. Thank you!
Wade, I am very thankful that God led you to continue preaching! You preach sermons that I think about for a long time and usually listen to them again. We will never know the impact we make on other lives. For me the interesting thing is the web our lives weave as God brings us in contact with others. I don’t believe our chance meetings are an accident. With love and prayers for you and Heather!
Very open and honest thoughts that I know will resonate with many who have worn preacher's shoes. Equally good insights and encouragements for anyone of any vocation. I appreciate your words, your work, and you generous embrace of fellowship. I pray blessing on you in this new season ... and many moments of Joy!
One of the highlights of my ministry over the past few years is getting to come north and meet you, Mike. I'd love to come that way again someday and hang out and talk about the writing life.
A great reflection with which many ministers can identify. Being of singular talent (and that questionable), I don't know what I would do with myself. I'm glad you're writing in a public forum like this and I look forward to what you have to share. This will encourage me to read Ecclesiastes with some fresh eyes!
Thanks, John! Great to hear from you. I keep up with your wordle results on Twitter.
The pressure is on, now. Thanks for that. 😳🫣😁
I'm glad that you didn't give up. Thank you for your thoughts. I now work at that elementary school that was once our church, sometimes it feels like ghosts of us are around, I know that they are just my thoughts. Thank you for challenging us, I like the uncomfortable feeling of having my views expanded. My daughter is on a journey of being a minister. Yes, a woman, I will send her your writings.
Hi Kathy! I'm loving these blasts from the past. Please let your daughter know Heather and I are cheering for her.
Thank you .
I will tell Karissa
Wade, I will always carry with me many of the messages that I heard of yours in 1999. That church in Bellingham, was formational in my first days as a Christian.
I remember the very first time I wandered in and the first sermon I heard. You preached that message about how you weren't going to change the culture of our meetings to suit the culture of the world, and that God's opinions were the only that really mattered.
I came back the next week, and you spoke about how we weren't going to make changes for the World, but we did need to be willing to make changes for Him. Any change. The following week, Mark Moeller stood up with his guitar and led us in worship. That has always stuck with me, as has some great messages on James. and others.
I am sure sometimes the seed you have scattered has maybe not born the fruit you have thought. But I sure do appreciate the seeds you invested in me. I trust that there is an abundance of Divine fruit on this planet that would not exist without your faithfulness to participate with Christ in obedience. So, thanks. And, excited to hear the results of your new endeavors!
All the best!
John
John! That was so long ago. I can't believe you remember all of that. I do remember you when you first came to SDC. It's been amazing to watch your ministry grow over the years. Proud of you, brother!
Good hearing from you Wade. Look forward to reading your thoughts and thanks for sharing these helpful words. I was one of those that was wondering why Wade got back into preaching. ;) Stay the course friend!
This is really good Wade. I love this way of seeing the joy past the initial pessimism of Ecclesiastes. That is one book in the Bible that is really tattooed on your soul...and a bit on your personality. (I mean that in a good way).
I applaud your transparency and authenticity. If more believers were as honest, perhaps the reputation of Christ's bride would be somewhat less tarnished.
Are we hypocrites? Yes. Each of us is at some point. That does not dimish the Word. It confirms it! Does the Church and Church leadership make mistakes, commit sins, speak ineffectively? Yes. Yes. And, heck Yes. The Word said those things have been happening since the Church was called, the Israelites (skeptical - spend some time in Genesis, anywhere in Genesis). So, rather than apologize for your frailties, I hope this new chapter will see you lighter, encouraged by seeing that other preachers ahead of you have felt this burden, yet persisted, knowing their "time" was not being wasted. It was part of a plan that you now can see only dimly in those comments (bless them, to quote you).
I look forward to additional words from you, as one who has read only these thus far.
Remember the story of the little boy flinging the starfish back into the ocean. A man walking by saying, "Son, what are you doing. There are so many you will never make a difference." The little boy replied as he flung the next one back in the water, "I did to that one."
Thanks Wade, I've had these feelings before and would love nothing more than to go to another Church and just sit it out in the pews again. But once you've played in the game and have scored a touch down you can't just sit the bench anymore. I don't watch football on Sunday but I love the analogy. All heaven rejoices when one soul repents. Every knee did bow for Damahr in Jesus name. It humbles me to be filled with the Holy Spirit of Jesus and HIS love for others and how HE encourages me to try again. I can relate to the quote "I was almost out but they dragged me back in".
I work full time and devote as much of my free time to ministry in anyway possible. I found out how quickly you can get burned out not seeing any results. Planting seeds of Faith and expecting miracle growth. The thought of only going to Church for an hour on Sunday morning or just watching it online just seems like starving myself to death. OR if your plan is to get your only Bible reading done from hearing the Pastor on Sunday is like planning on having someone feed you for the rest of your life. And being unsatisfied with the service. Where else shall we go when you Jesus are the author of life and truth. I can see why Paul was saying you should be feeding yourself by now not still craving milk. Not everyone is equipped or gifted the same. In the garden some are just sprouting and others are in the their fall and winter seasons. Having done kids ministry and adult Bible study there is not much difference in the challenges of being an influence and example. Loving them to Jesus is how being overflowing with HIS Grace is all about. The race isn't over and we haven't heard well done good and faithful servant. Thanks Wade! I was almost out but you dragged me back in!
Thanks for sharing Wade. This was a very helpful read for me and very timely. Just last week I was wrestling with the question of whether or not my efforts were really worth much. Having served two wonderful churches, and having seen very little institutional growth in either, sometimes I struggle with the a lack of visible results, and wonder if it is just a matter of trying harder or working harder. But then I realize that is just a recipe for burnout and exhaustion. So this was a good reminder…work hard, enjoy the little moments that do sometimes come, and remember that futility is built into things and therefore one has to accept what one is given, even if we cannot yet see how the dots are connected in the big scheme of things. Thank you again.
You are welcome, Curtis. Hang in there.
Wade, that was a great series on Ecclesiastes, sometimes a head scratcher. What I wish you could hear are the many times someone in class says, “Wade said in one of his sermons…..”. I have good notes from lots of your sermons, but Gerald and Keith have good memories, and boy do they use your words to substantiate their thoughts. I look forward to reading more from you.