I was reading in a book that Pastor Dar gave me from Reuben Job the other day. The readings for last week in particular struck me as poignant. The reflections talked about making a personal investment in the lives of people as we serve in ministry. I have thought long and hard about that. I find that that call in ministry could have a fine line. How does one do ministry correctly and personally while also keeping oneself intact. How does one define the line between personal and relational, and is there a line?
I think of Jesus' ministry where he made a specific point in becoming relational with his disciples, even going so far as to describe one that he loved. He even gave John the charge of taking care of Mary, his mother, upon his death and resurrection. I wonder tho, in the grand scheme, if Jesus was lonely? I know that may sound elementary, but in my mere human sense I wonder how he recharged his batteries? Did he not need to do so? Am I way off my rocker to even suggest such a concept? I know not.
I guess I was thinking about it in terms of the call to relational and personal ministry. It would be easy to be in relationships with those with whom one works, and yet the line must be drawn and adhered. I hope I am making some sense, if anyone has any ideas, please write back, it is not always helpful to keep talking to myself. I asks myself, but i get no answers. ~cal~
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There is definitely a line between ministry to and friendship with someone, but I often cross it, whether intentionally or not. I think sometimes you have to. If you are not close with the people you are serving, you are probably not going to be very effective, but it is also very easy to get too close. I would error more on the side of friendship with people, allowing them to see how the Gospel impacts you on a day to day basis. Jesus modeled that for us.
As for Jesus needing to be recharged...he definitely needed to get away to rejuvenate himself. The Gospels constantly talk about Jesus getting away to a quiet place or going atop a mountain or going out in a boat ahead of them. Jesus understood the need to take care of himself in order to be able to care for others.
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