Leading and Breathing

Had a pretty good weekend...considering. My boss was in town this weekend to hangout with us and see how things are going, which seems to always be a bit nerve-racking. It was incredibly refreshing to be around those who have gone before me, both professionally and spiritually. I highly value input and advice from the generation of pastors and teachers that have blazed the trail. There is such wisdom in experience and wisdom in remaining faithful in the calling. You know I have heard just outragous heartbreaking statistics about pastors and spiritual leaders that don't finish well. To the ones that are I say "bravo my friends, may God continue to bless you". Just being in the presence of those that are still breaking trial is motivating and inspiring. And I was definitely encouraged this weekend.

On a similar note, I went to a conference this summer and one of the seminars I went to was about soul care. How do we, as leaders who are caring for the souls of others, take care of our own souls? The lady teaching had some great illustrations and analogies comparing long distance swimming to that of spiritual leadership. Being able to breath throughout the swim. She was encouraging us to think of ourselves as long distance swimmers (leaders) instead of those that swim the sprints. If I want to someday be that silver-haired, genuine, wise, pastor of pastors, developing long distance soul care will be a life sustaining endeavor that will be critical to my success and longevity.

All this to say, it was nice to spend this weekend with a couple who have endured and lead well, over the long haul. And who are still setting the pace for young punks like me. Lead on!