Filling Station

"For I long to see you, that I may impart to you some spiritual gift to strengthen you--that is, that we may be mutually encouraged by each other's faith, both yours and mine."
- The Epistle to the Romans 1:11-12 (ESV)

This Friday I had the opportunity to meet a guy I'd been invited to know for a long time. He's my age and pastor of a church in St. Louis which happens to have as parishioners some close friends of mine (an old college roommate and his "girl" to be exact). For years, my "roomie" had wanted me to meet with him saying how alike we both were in passions, personalities, etc. So when the opportunity surfaced to meet with him in Houston I jumped at it. I wasn't disappointed.

I wanted to write this in light of my last post. Yes, there are times when those who have given their lives in full-time ministry immensely disappoint you with their selfish and reckless actions. But there are also times, much more frequent in my experiences I might add, where you run across fellow pastors who inspire, encourage and challenge you. You leave your time with them more fired up to serve Jesus with greater fidelity and intensity at the church he has placed you. For me, those are moments that feed my spirit. They are cool drinks of water in the sometimes arid landscape of ministry. I depart those times of fellowship with my tank fuller (or is it "more full") than it was when I shook hands in greeting.

Friday just reminded me of how important it is for me to get around guys my age, who essentially do what I do and share how the journey is going. If that's my weakness so be it. I need that time. I crave that time. There are fewer things I do that fill me up the way that does!

If you find yourself in a little slump or low on gas (or neither - you should do this no matter how good or bad it's going), grab a buddy who sails the same type of ship you do. Hit him up for a cup of coffee, a game down at the ballpark or (as in my case) breakfast. You may find yourself a little more "filled up" after it's all said and done!