Back to the Basics: What an Interim Pastor is Re-learning about Pastoring
I have the privilege of serving as Interim Pastor at Olathe College Church these days. Over the last four months I have learned to re-embrace some truths learned earlier in pastoral ministry. Here’s what my experience at College Church is re-teaching me:
- When God calls, God provides.
There are things that can be accomplished only with God’s help. Pastoring is one of those things.
- Prayer changes everything.
Situations, church climate, people… everything changes when we pray.
- People need to know they are loved.
And when they know they are loved, it makes it easier for them to love.
- People need to know they are appreciated.
It’s important to say “thank you” often.
- People respond to anointed preaching.
Pray well, prepare well (your message and your heart), anticipate well, and trust well (the Bible, the people, yourself, and God).
- It is more important to be interested than to be interesting.
It’s easier for people to listen to you if you’ve listened to them.
- Invest in leadership.
We also call this “making Christlike disciples.”
- Good systems produce good fruit.
Discipleship, Stewardship, Guest Services – these paths should be well designed, well maintained, and well used.
- Three things a leader does:
Upon arriving, a leader defines reality.
Upon leaving, a leader says, “Thank you for the privilege of serving.”
In between the two, a leader serves well.
- From now on, online is mainline.
Online is now the church’s front porch. Most folks won’t come through the front door until they experience the front porch.
Dr. Eddie Estep, Kansas City District Superintendent
From the May 3, 2021 KC District Bulletin, printed with permission
Published: 05/17/2021
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