Continuing Series in the Life of a Pastoral Care Pastor

April 20, 2010 – Tuesday; Again the day started pretty normal, alarm clock woke me pretty much at the normal time and needed to go outside to relieve herself and then eat and then back out again. After devotions I left for the office early as I had many things on my mind. My first appointment was scheduled with the family of the 39 year old man who was found in a local pond several days ago. We planned the memorial service…it was sad as their son was a little handicapped and very active in the Virginia Special Olympics. He was a good person who had many friends and the service will be well attended. The family had their best friends included in the discussions and it was nice to see friends and family working together. I am sure it will be an uplifting service…only thing…I am not sure of his salvation as well as his sister and mother and dad. It will be a challenge for me to share the gospel in such a fashion they will understand and receive it from God. Soon after this meeting Pastor Paul and I headed to another family in our church who are going through some rough financial times…seems like the whole house had water problems and it has been discouraging to the family. They are now looking at several thousand dollars in repairs and no income…they will have to trust that God will pull them through. After meeting with them had to return to the office and attend our weekly Leadership Team meeting. Got in late and got called out early to handle a lady who came in and needed some pastoral help…she was crying because her husband left her without saying goodbye or why he left. She needed some reassurance that God loved her and would see her through this time…she used up almost a whole box of tissues as she was able to get the emotions out and then let the Holy Spirit in to minister to her. Just as she left one of the pastors who served with me until about a year ago came by to say hello but could only spend a few minutes with him as another appointment walked in the door. This couple is long time members of the church and he has been unemployed for over a year. Have used up all their savings and 401 money to pay bills and needed some help with two overdue utility bills. Had a chance to minister to them that God is faithful and will see them through this rough time…she has a job and with her income and some savings and family they have been able to survive…I was very happy to be able to help with these bills in order to relieve some stress from them…temporary but good for the moment. Left the office a little after 5 and headed home. Jeanette and I were meeting with daughter of our close friends who is in trouble and needed some help. We had dinner with her and discuss how we could help. After taking her home we finally had a short down time and then off to bed…but not before we had to give our little dog her nightly treat. She has a funny way of asking…almost every night she gets in my lap and just stares at me…she is telling me look into my eyes…now get me my treat. I let her stare for awhile and then give in…she then is happy and ready to turn in for the evening. All is well in her life….ahhhh the life of a dog…