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I’ve always had a struggle with staying connected to and building relationships with people outside of the “church.” I would bet that I spend 95% of my time hanging out with, talking to, in meetings with, or worshipping with believers. Now some would say, “Wow, that sounds like a dream job!” or “I wish my world was like that!”

Don’t get me wrong, I love being around other believers. I love my job. Please don’t assume that I don’t. My frustration is that I just don’t have many opportunities to rub shoulders with people that are not followers of Christ. This is due in most part to where I work and what God has called me to do. But, should I be content with that? Only rubbing shoulders with other believers? I don’t think so.

Thus the frustration. The Bible says, in fact Jesus said, “You are the salt of the earth”, the ”light of the world,” and “a city set on a hill,” .” How can I be “salt”, or “light”, or a “city set on a hill” when I’m only spending time with other believers? Yes, there are many followers of Christ that need “salt”, “light”, and a “city on a hill”. But, I don’t think Jesus was telling us to be “salt”, or “light”, or a “city on a hill” to ONLY other believers. In fact, He was speaking to His followers about those that don’t follow Him. (Matt. 5:13-16)

I’ve purposefully engaged in outside activities just for the purpose of getting to know people that may not be believers. I was highly involved in my oldest son’s track and basketball teams. I’ve coached my youngest son’s soccer teams. I’m now one of the photographers for his club and High School soccer teams. I’ve tried to get to know my neighbors. But honestly I don’t know them at all.  I’m so frustrated.

Any other pastors out there frustrated about this aspect of their life?

March 30th, 2007 | Category: Leadership, Ministry, Personal | Subscribe to comments | You can skip to the end and leave a response. Pinging is currently not allowed