When things are going well and there is a general atmosphere of optimism, we can grow slack on our theological beliefs. We can spend energy debating theological nuances and neglect giving attention to some basic beliefs. I remember a conversation I had with a Christian pastor’s family relating their experience of living in Europe during the time of the holocaust. The essence of the conversation was that when your life is on the line you don’t have the luxury of debating non-essentials. You are driven back to basic beliefs.
Yesterday I mentioned the sense of despair engulfing many clergy. What are some of the basic beliefs that we need to revisit during times when we are feeling anxious and even despairing? John Calvin, who also wrote at a time of despair and anxiety, found himself emphasizing the sovereignty of God. Perhaps it is time for us to remind ourselves that God is in charge and ask what God is doing in the midst of our chaos.
In line with that, I recall one of my favorite verses from Matthew 6:34: “So do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring worries of its own. today’s trouble is enough for today.” If you are feeling anxious about the state of the church, this may be a time when you need to focus on what you can do in your church at this time and trust in God to sustain you in the future.
There would be value, for yourself and others, to meet with one or two colleagues, and have as your agenda identifying five basic truths about the church that need to be emphasized at this point in time. First, it would prevent you from slipping into isolation. Second, it would take you back to some basic fundamentals about your call. Third, it would remind you that you are part of something bigger than yourself. All of that can be healing in a time of anxiety.
