Tuesday, March 20, 2007

"comiendo sapos"

Some years ago I was discussing with another preacher some of the things we do to serve others, particularly the brethren. He summed it all up in a very colorful expression--at times we have to "comer sapos"--eat toads. Obviously he didn't mean literally eating a toad, but rather do something that would be as odious as eating a toad. There are a lot of things I will eat and have eaten, from nutria to crawdads and frog legs, but the very thought of eating a toad almost gags me.

In our work as preachers we are often called upon to perform just such tasks, for the good of the church and frequently a particular brother or brethren. Whether we have wronged someone (intentionally or unintentionally) the preacher is the one who must humble himself and begin the "confession" process. How often have I thought to myself, "why do I always have to be the bad guy?" because it doesn't seem to matter whether I am really or not, that's the way it comes off. What is particularly galling is when it happens over and over with the same person.

At other times we are asked to perform menial, even unpleasant physical tasks--running people to the Dr., caring for them, etc. As that is part of the work of every Christian and since preachers frequently are more flexible in their time use, some of this is expected and just part of the job, but it can also get out of hand.

Then are those times that we are called upon for "counseling". Usually by the time it gets to you, it is a fullblown crisis, so not only is it painful for all involved (including the preacher and/or his wife) but takes a lot of effort and time to resolve it, if it can in fact be resolved. How disheartening it is to spend hours over several months time with a couple, only to have them divorce anyway. Or there are those people who aren't really seeking counsel, but rather approval, or just someone to listen to them. Again, we all need a shoulder to cry on sometimes, but this can be overused too.

But before we begin bemoaning our lot, and how the brethren "abuse" us, let us remember that the word minister means servant--in choosing to be a preacher or minister we are choosing to be a servant. Service to the brethren is what binds them to you and gives you the influence with them to "kick em in the pants" at times when needed. It also gives you the credibility to teach them things they may not want to accept. Service is part and parcel of the preacher's job.

This is true not only of preachers though, but of all Christians. We are called to be servants of God, not masters for Him. Should we not be willing to suffer a wrong if it will strengthen another? Paul said he would never eat meat again if it caused his brother to stumble--do you have that attitude? As servants of God it is our duty to obey His will, not my desires.

Tol

Thursday, March 15, 2007

Our new "digs"


Everything is coming together for our move to Puerto Rico--our monthly support is committed, our house is under contract (it should close the 27th of March), and we are well on our way to having enough to move.
So, I thought it might be appropriate to show the church building where we will be working and worshipping from mid May onward, for at least 5 years. The churches (Spanish speaking and English speaking) in Caparra Terrace meet in a house that has been converted. The auditorium is in the middle and will seat 60-70 easily and there is one room there are using as a classroom on the right. There are 2 bathrooms and a couple of other rooms that could be used as kids class rooms, so we have a good start.
The brethren are very excited--they have been sprucing up the building, trying to do what they can to clean it up. Funds are limited, but they are making the effort.
I will post our new address, phone number, etc. when we get it. We plan to be in Puerto Rico from the 29th of March for 6 days to look for a house, set up a bank acct., get a P.O Box, etc. The blog will continue at the same address but my e-mail address will change. More on that later.
We first of all thank God for all of this, as well as those of you who have been praying for us. This has all come to pass in record time. Please continue to pray for us as we begin our labors in Puerto Rico. Also remember Edward Rangel, that things may go as smooth for him as he moves to work with us there.
Tol Burk

Tuesday, March 13, 2007

"Tengo un proposito"

In the Dominican Republic and Venezuela particularly before services begin there is likely to be a time for anyone to ask for the prayers of the church. Often times it is for someone who is sick--the member themselves or some relative or friend, but another common request is our title, which I think translates more or less "I am planning something and ask for your prayers". The plan or intention is seldom specified, it is just "I have a plan and need your prayers." The first time I heard this I was struck by it, as it is very different than our custom in requesting prayers in this country. Normally we are more specific (in the islands they can be embarrasingly specific--you wish you didn't know what they were asking for prayers for).

Which one of these three customs is "right"? I suggest it is the one that fits their culture. I started musing about this today when a brother called me and asked Dana and I to pray for him concerning an unspecified high point in his life. He said, "I believe that prayer has an effect, as I know you do, so I'm asking you to pray for us about this."

Brethren, do we really believe prayer can change things? If so, why don't we ask each for prayers more often? James tells us, "confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed." He goes on to cite the example of Elijah--he prayed that it might not rain and it did not rain for 3 1/2 years--until he prayed again that it would. He goes on to point out that Elijah was just a man, a man like you and me.

As we are gearing up for our move to Puerto Rico I ask you to pray for us, that the move may go smoothly and that we may find a house we can both afford and enjoy.

Tol