Too small for the task

Harold “Doc” Arnett writes in this morning’s Fruit of the Vine that pastors and leaders sometimes “feel too small for the task.” We ask ourselves whether we can do what God has called us to do – “comfort a family in the aftermath of tragedy,” say the words people need to hear, offer something of value on a Sunday morning or a Wednesday night. We consider the pain and suffering in the world and in our neighborhood. We know that we can’t fix it, whatever it is.

“As I reflect on some of the situations that I’ve faced,” Harold writes, “I have to admit that my doubts are always anchored in my own expectations of myself.” For whatever reason, we think we’re supposed to be able to fix the pain and say the words that will make people whole.

But ministry isn’t magic.

Harold shares that he’s learned to pray, “Lord, help me to be a blessing to these people,” and that he is reminded that it’s not up to him to impress. His role – our responsibility – is to bring good to others, even if just a little. God “is always able to take the little that I have and multiply it for others.” 

“We have here only five loaves of bread and two fish,” they said.

Jesus “gave thanks and broke the loaves. Then he gave them to the disciples, and the disciples gave them to the people. They all ate and were satisfied.”

We are too small for the task, but we dare not let that stop us from bringing what little we have, giving it to Jesus, and trusting that somehow it might be a blessing. 

Thank you,
Eric Muhr