FROM MY HEART TO YOURS:

“What am I supposed to learn from this?” I have been asking that question a lot in recent months and weeks. “Why” did this happen is the normal response, and I confess I still ask that, but now I’m trying to ask, “What would you have me learn from this experience Lord?”

“Lord, you know I love cutting grass - I’ve been doing that since I was a very young child! Why, then am I standing here watching a retired church member, or my next door neighbor, cut my grass! What am I supposed to learn?” I am learning to let others help with things I can’t do (for the moment). As a pastor it is my nature to serve others and the idea of being served is not an easy thing -- but if that is something God wants me to learn then I need patience and the will to do so!

Patience? Is that one of the truths I need to learn from back problems? I want to be more patient with others - I need to be more patient with others. So, Lord, will you help me learn how to be more patient in my walk with you? Show me how to “be still and know that you are God.”

Trust? Can I learn to trust you more during times like this? Can I learn to trust others when I’m feeling weak? How can I learn to trust in you even when the pain and hurt is so intense? Father, teach me how to trust the wisdom and direction of gifted and skilled folks who are there to help in matters of urgency. Teach me how to trust in your daily outpouring of blessing and strength. Teach me more about trust so I can be trusted more by you in the calling you’ve extended to me.

Empathy? I am learning that there are a lot of folks who have various aches and pains, hurts that I may not be aware of . . . but that doesn’t make them any less significant to that person! So, maybe I’m learning to be a bit more understanding and caring for others who hurt. I’m overwhelmed with the number of folks who’ve shared their experience with back pain - and others who have similar stories to my own. I now understand more and I want you to know I’m going to pray a bit harder for your health and healing!! I’ve been touched by those who’ve come to me and prayed for my healing, for my health, and for my well-being.

God is in the teaching business! I’m sure there is much more I need to learn to be a better pastor, husband, father and friend - I want to learn all I can (with a little less pain if possible Lord!). Lessons learned in times of difficulty are usually lessons learned for life. Thank God that He loves us enough to teach us how to be His children and how we can be of service in His kingdom.

Thanks again for your prayers and patience. I’m coming along slowly and knowing that you

I am gratefully and thankfully His . . . Yours,
Pastor Tom