For a long time, I would have said that my first love of ministry was preaching. And it’s true, I love the process of interacting with the Living Word of God, putting that Word into conversation with my own life, and the life and needs of a congregation. Add to that the unpredictable work of the Holy Spirit, and I’m in sermonating heaven!
Today I would say that my first love in ministry is getting to know God’s people, and journeying with them to find faith, encouragement and comfort in the midst of the life’s joys and struggles. My preaching has changed through the years to “fit” the needs of my congregation, the season, who’s having a baby, who’s looking for a job, who’s just lost a loved one.
Looking at a manuscript doesn’t always capture those Holy Spirit moments, but here are a few of my thoughts…
Grits and God-talk 