Ministry wisdom

William Willimon recently asked retired ministers to share their insights on what it takes to be a faithful minister of the gospel. Dr. Willimon's summary of their responses includes this point:

The only enduring reasons for being in ministry are theological. Pastors must constantly refurbish their sense that this is a "God thing," that ministry is more than a mere "helping profession." Pastoral ministry arises out of theological commitments and is dependent upon what God is doing in the church and the world.

Amen. I recommend reading the whole post.