The Power Of Skin On Skin

Tuesday, March 11, 2008

Today I am spending the day at an event designed to bring together seasoned pastors with younger guys like myself. Most of these guys lead churches of tremendous influence and over the years have dealt with endless problems, issues, brick walls, and the like, and have managed to remain joyful and excited about ministry. More than one has shared how they’ve been tempted to quit endless times but because of God’s strength have stuck it out. Just being with them and seeing their faithfulness emboldens me to keep pressing on and keep smiling.

When we read through the letters of Paul in the New Testament, it’s easy to gloss over the lists of names at the ends of each book, names like Aristarchus, Tychicus, Sosipater, Timothy, Phoebe, Silas, Lucius, and Jason. We shouldn’t. Each name had a face. Each name carried a story. Each name marked a human being who struggled and probably died serving the same Jesus we serve. One of the reasons I think God left these seemingly insignificant endnotes in the Bible was to remind us of the power of seasoned Christian mentors.

Paul poured his life into these men and women. Everything they went through, Paul beat them to the punch. Imprisoned? Been there. Beaten? Paul had the scars on his face. Discouraged? Lonely? Impoverished? Paul had experienced it all. When Paul spoke about suffering and God’s presence and the miracle we experience when we persevere, it meant something; it carried weight. Paul’s words brought life. His presence brought calm to anxious hearts, and his perseverance made people believe that they could persevere too.

I thankful for the guys who, for whatever reason, have chosen to take me under their wing and share their journey with me – guys with names like Ray and Paul, Doug and Tom.

A Greek Orthodox gal told me one time that she thought saints were simply people who make it a little bit easier to believe in God.

They’re probably people who make it a little bit easier serving God too.