After all these years, my favorite Pixar film remains The Incredibles (2004), largely due to the character arc of it’s lead, Bob, aka Mr. Incredible. Bob begins the story a prime example of the common “lone-hero trope.” Remember, “Fly home, Buddy! I work alone”? And this continues through much of the story until the film’s climax, when he realizes that success, even survival, is possible only as he works in concert with others, in this case his family. The turning point was his realization, “I’m not strong enough.”
Pastors, ministry leaders, we’re not strong enough. We need each other to support, assist, encourage, resource, stretch, and even challenge one another. I wrote last week about the importance of bearing the weight of ministry together. But, given this, why do many choose to work alone?
Often pastors and staff know the need, but are so drawn into the busyness of their congregations that they find no time. Circumstances drive them into a pattern of isolation.
Some don’t seek out colleagues for connection because they assume it would be an imposition on their colleague’s time.
Some have tried in the past, only to have their trust broken. This leaves them hesitant to reach out.
Some don’t know who they can reach out to.
Some overestimate their strength and abilities, not realizing the need.
Some carry personal pain or sin that, if they were to genuinely connect with another, would be found out.
I find it noteworthy that, from beginning to end, scripture says more about the people of God in community than it does the individual journey of faith. I believe it’s because, as the Lord’s designed it to work, the corporate journey is essential for fulfilling the personal one. Those of us called to ministry through the church understand this, but often we focus so much on providing community for others that we don’t draw on it ourselves.
In the book I’m currently reading, The Flourishing Pastor, author Tom Nelson says, “Pastors are not only shepherds; they must keep in mind they are sheep too.” And as sheep, we need the care and support of shepherds and the rest of the flock.
Where do we find this support? That’s our topic for next week.
Blessings,
Bro. Jim