The word "ministry" evokes a wide range of emotions, opinions, and ideas, especially from those in the Church. What makes a ministry successful, fruitful, and sustainable? What exactly should ministry look like? In the end, who is ministering to whom? Today's post is the first ever guest post on this blog and is written by our friend and former Pastor, Charlie Collier. This is a man who handed out his personal cell number to homeless drifters and church members alike, a man who valued the teaching of women enough to share his pulpit with them, and a man who loved this city and its people in a uniquely tangible way. Their family has been a blessing to all of us during their time here, and they will all be dearly missed! Here's what he learned about ministry as he pastored our church in the city of Cleveland for over a decade…
Read moreFor When Words Fail Me
Paralyzed by fear
I can almost hear
The knot forming in my throat
Doubtful eyes
Starting to despise
Everything I just wrote
The life of a writer
Insecurity fighter
Why can’t I measure up
I have no words
Typing is absurd
Maybe we should just break up
To think in rhythm
To feel in rhyme
Can’t be a mistake
Most of the time
But to tell myself
I have something to say
Doesn't feel true
On any given day
How can my keystrokes
Possibly benefit the world
Meet the great need
In a ball I remain curled
To face the unknown
The critic, the hater
It takes great courage
To step out as creator
So I will quiet the doubting
Tell anxiety to sleep
I’m putting pen to the paper
Because inspiration won’t keep
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While I admit that I don't know much about the rules and correct structure of poetry, my deepest thoughts and feelings seem to have a cadence. The only way I've found to emote the rawest parts of me is through poetry, if you can call it that. For anyone who has struggled with purpose and worth and ability, I'm right there with you today. Trust in the mysterious process of putting pen to paper and just keep writing, whether you feel like it or not.
xo