More Than a Mission: It’s Personal
Why I Keep Talking (Even When It Gets Awkward)
I share ideas and spark conversations not because I enjoy controversy (spoiler: I don’t), but because I genuinely believe dialogue has the power to change lives—even the tough, squirm-in-your-seat kind of dialogue. Sometimes it's messy. Sometimes it's awkward. But often, it’s exactly where transformation begins—right in the middle of a heartfelt, honest conversation with someone brave enough to lean in instead of walk out.
Now, there’s a quote by Paul David Tripp that stopped me mid-scroll:
“My love for the church drives my concern for its leaders.”
That hit me right in the heart. Why? Because I feel that. Deeply.
The church isn't just a building with donuts and bulletins (though we do love those things). It’s a living, breathing, slightly quirky family of believers called to walk with, uplift, and sometimes lovingly challenge one another for the sake of growth. At its best, it’s a place where faith flourishes, community deepens, and people actually enjoy potlucks.
But here’s the thing: behind every Sunday service, every Bible study, and every comforting visit to someone in need, there are leaders—pastors, elders, volunteers—doing their best to carry the weight of it all with grace and grit. And let’s be real: it’s a lot. Tripp’s quote reminds us that loving the church well means caring about the well-being of the people steering the ship (even when it feels like a cruise liner in a hurricane).
Church leaders face pressures most people never see. The late-night texts. The prayer requests that break your heart. The constant wrestling with how to lead with both truth and tenderness. And often, they’re expected to do it all with a smile, a sturdy faith, and the energy of a golden retriever.
That’s why supporting our leaders isn’t just “a nice thing to do”—it’s vital. When leaders are encouraged, prayed for, and surrounded by people who care, they’re empowered to lead from a place of wholeness. And a healthy leader helps grow a healthy church.
On the flip side, when leaders are running on fumes or feeling isolated, it can affect the whole community. (And not in a "funny church blooper reel" kind of way.)
So, let’s love our leaders well. Not just with a quick “Great sermon!” in the lobby, but with intentional encouragement, check-ins, and maybe even the occasional coffee delivery. Let’s remember they’re human too—called, yes, but also in need of the same grace and support as everyone else.
In the end, this is how the church thrives: when we all show up—not just for ourselves, but for each other. For the mission. For the leaders. For the love of Christ that holds it all together.
And if that means we have a few hard conversations along the way? Bring 'em on. There’s beauty in the tension, growth in the dialogue, and always—always—hope on the other side.
Let’s Put This into Action:
This week, pick one church leader—your pastor, a volunteer, a youth leader, whoever—and reach out. Send a text. Write a note. Drop off coffee. Ask how they’re really doing.
And hey, if you're feeling bold, invite someone into a conversation that matters. It could be the start of something transformative—for them and for you.
We’re better together. Let’s live like it. 💬❤️
