I just got involved and dis-involved in a drama that was a long time coming. People say that pastoral work is lonely work. What's trapped me in the past is that the phone hasn't rung all day. Am I all dry? All wet? What is wrong, or is everything ok? Standing in the presence of conflict especially when I can't let go of my convictions is painful, confusing, and ultimately the right answer.
I think of Martin Luther posting a sign on the door, saying "Here I stand, I can do no other." I feel that way. Challenge is that PWOC leadership slate is up for grabs. At this exact moment. God's design? I don't feel any inclination NOT to continue to allow myself to be open to this office.
What does it mean to engage in conflict with people who viscerally disagree with my approach or theology? It means boiling down the issue to just that. It means ensuring that emotions stay out of the fray. It means Matthew 18 has to be the rule of the day. It means guaranteeing that the ultimate goal is to fight for Christ to be better known and loved.
