I was asked a few weeks ago what I thought my greatest challenge was in the coming years? Naturally, I was being asked this question by a young guy that had probably assumed that at my advanced age of 58, I might answer with some wise, sage-like answer that could be quoted as irrelevant or even nonsensical. My answer shocked him, and I hope it might encourage you.
My answer came to me with ease and with passion. At 58, I am more passionate and energized by my work and ministry than at any other time in my thirty years of serving the Kingdom of God.
I’ve advanced from a cocky, brash pitbull of a leader to a humbled, focused shepherd. I had the answer – an answer that I have crafted over the past six years as the Pastor of Sugar Hill Church. It’s an answer that might shock many. It’s not to pastor a far larger church or have a world-renowned ministry. It’s not to preach to millions or even have a hugely successful book.
But this one thing I know that I am here to do. It’s not hip, it isn’t magazine worthy. It won’t get me invited to conferences or be interviewed by Oprah.
Are you ready? It’s this simple:
I am here to encourage as many people as possible that you can love God with all your heart, mind and soul and you do not have to be a spiritual weirdo. You can love Jesus and trust him with your life and be a normal person. AND that you can find all the theology you need in three phrases:
- God Loves You with an everlasting love and there is absolutely nothing you can do to make Him not love you.
- You can trust that He gave you His Son as a gift that offers you life with all of His resurrection power and peace that overcomes the messed up world we live in.
- And when you love God, you can actually love others as you are to love yourself.
Before all the brilliant theologians impart their superior wisdom on this simple article, ask yourself this question. Does my theology work for a family in Haiti, or Cuba, or Kenya, or is it just an American take on how whatever denomination you are a part of sees it? I’ll stick with Jesus is enough and so much more. You can do this!
As for me, I’ll serve with a fierce determination that YOU CAN DO THIS! You can live this Jesus Life because He promised that He has already done it – you are just along for a life filled with purpose, passion, compassion and a contented life + Heaven – Not “just” Heaven.
I am a living witness – YOU CAN DO THIS because He has done it for you! Go ahead – Love Jesus and Be as Normal as You Please!
If I were to ask you that question – what is your greatest challenge in the coming years? What might your answer be. Here are a few thoughts to help you build an answer:
- Is it CLEAR? (I get it)
- Is it unique? (I know it’s mine)
- Is it compelling? (I can’t wait to tackle tomorrow)
- Is it big enough that you need God to succeed? (I want & need time with The Divine)
I would love for you to share your thoughts with me via email HERE.
–AChuck
