This was a tougher week, emotionally, than I've had in a while. The reason...a friend of mine is hurting and I haven't been able to get in touch with him.
When I was younger he played a key part in my deciding to follow Jesus. During my teenage years I cannot count the times we sat outside my house, in his car, until the early hours of the morning talking about the things that occupied my mind in those days.
Eventually, years later he went into ministry and, once again, played a key part in my decision to go into ministry.
Two weeks ago he resigned from his church. His marriage broken up. No, this wasn't a case of moral failure. Actually, I don't know all the details, except that things got to be too much for him and his wife and their marriage couldn't handle the pressure. After trying some counseling, and unsuccessfully attempting the things you're supposed to....their marriage broken up...he resigned.
I've been trying to contact him. Just to listen. But I haven't been able to get a hold of him.
Interesting in all this is the whole issue that after several years of giving himself heart, mind and soul to this ministry, he hands in a letter and has to go deal with the hurt and pain. I know, I know...the church is hurt too, as his the family...but why is it that at the time that he needs the body the most...it's not there.
Anyway, I really didn't want to post this...but it's been on my mind so much. I just want to be there for him and haven't been able to and not knowing how he is and how he's handling this has been getting to me.
I'm praying for you friend!
Posted by edWhen you do get a hold of him tell him I am praying for him too.