“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God.” (Matt. 5:9)
“I’M SORRY, PASTOR, but this just isn’t working out. We are leaving and taking with us whoever will join us.” John had been pastoring the same church for ten years, but this last year had been quite difficult. He dearly loved the little church he served and considered it not just a church but his home and family as well. Now here he sat in a cold boardroom with a handful of church members who had come to speak their grievances.
“I know that for some of you the frustrations have been building,” John began, trying to hide his nervousness, “but I believe it is essential for us to work out our problems.”
“Pastor,” another parishioner spoke up, “we just can’t continue like this anymore.”
“Well, what can be done? I cannot see this church be torn apart,” John said.
“Well, pastor, maybe it is just time for you to leave.”
John was taken aback by the parishioner’s statement. Leave? How could he leave a place he loved so dearly? John knew in his heart the importance of keeping the church whole. The decision that John would have to make was complicated. Nonetheless, his faith led him to value the peace of the body more than his piece of turf. Ultimately, he chose to leave his church.
Reflect on what you would be willing to do to bring peace.
Amy Knepp is a graduate of Indiana Wesleyan University and a stay-at-home mother of four children.
© 2017 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission.
