Sufficient - Pastor's Pen for 14th June 2026

Memory Rock, Medlands Beach

It's ten years today (Tuesday) since I was inducted into the ministry of Forrest Hill Presbyterian. It's been a decade with a number of grave challenges and also many blessings. When we were at Great Barrier recently, I explored the beach in the early morning. There was a local mini island called Memory Rock, or at least that's what the local church folk called it. There was a scary little path up the side with not much to hang onto.

Life in ministry is a bit like that. Sometimes you are clinging on and watching the dangers unfold. Other times you are on the restful park bench at the top, taking in the view. Then there are all the in-between bits on a spectrum from anxiety to serenity. To carry on in ministry as a follower of Jesus you need faith that God has called you. Everyone ministers in some way. Ministry usually puts the blowtorch on your weaknesses as a human being. If you don't notice your shortcomings, be assured someone will. A good measure of humility is required to receive that feedback. Of course, if you don't think you have any shortcomings, that's a different kind of problem.

I can relate to Apostle Paul as he wrestled with his thorn in the flesh; "‘My grace is sufficient for you, for power is made perfect in weakness.’ So, I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me." If you're still here after a decade, you probably know some of my weak points. Managing a stammer day by day is but one of them. Thanks for sticking around.

I've been the minister here for a little longer than Trump thinks he's been President of the United States (including the five or so years he actually has been). Don't worry, I'm not expecting a twenty foot gold statue when I finally leave, a photo with a sympathetic lighting and angle to add to the rogues' gallery in the office will be appreciated. Meantime, I will remember God's abundant grace to me along the journey, I know it will be sufficient.