Unleashing My Angry "Inner Pastor"

When I was a kid, I used to love watching the tv show "The Incredible Hulk."  Every week, Bill Bixby would morph into Lou Ferrigno covered in green paint because someone had made him angry enough to push him into becoming the Hulk.  Here are a few things that have me on the verge of "hulking out" today:

• Churches who have forgotten the mission of the church--If we are not consumed with proclaiming the love of Jesus to a desperate and dying world, why are we even bothering to open up our doors?  We are to be the ambassadors of Christ Himself, declaring hope and healing for all who find a new identity by accepting Jesus as Lord.  There is nothing in this world more exciting than seeing a soul that embraces Christ as Savior.  When was the last time that we wept and prayed over the lost souls within our own neighborhood?  Do we even care that many of people we call "friends" are on their way to Hell?
• Pastors who don't have the time or desire to shepherd--Leading your flock is so much more than preaching a message each Sunday.  Whose story did you listen to?  What needs did you meet?  Who did you encourage, build up, and help grow to be more like Jesus?  Who have you served this week, pastor?  
• Christmas that could easily thrive without Christ--Isn't it sad that we have drifted so far in our personal traditions with Christmas that we really don't even need Baby Jesus anymore?  I have nothing against Santa, stockings, or presents, BUT I have felt some personal conviction this week in my sermon prep about how easily we could "celebrate Christmas" without Christ ever showing up!

By the way, it's not my intention to call anyone out or make anyone mad.  I am kicking myself in the seat of the pants on all three of these issues.  I want to be a believer who boldly shares his faith, a pastor who loves his people, and a man who must worship Christ through Christmas.  I am angry because of falling short in all three of these areas.

Perhaps now that it's confessed in public, I can be a little less angry!

Comments

[Mark Watson]

Amen. Amen. Amen!!!