Rejoicing in the Trenches: Coffee Shops, Counseling, and Coverage Concerns

Dear reader – 

   This week has been one that reminds me why I chose this path of ministry. It was exhausting, challenging, but ultimately deeply fulfilling. As I reflect on Colossians 1:24, I'm struck by how it played out in my interactions.

I met a new friend for coffee at a local coffee shop. He's been struggling with questions about faith, particularly about salvation. We dove deep into discussing what Christ accomplished on the cross. I could see the wheels turning in his mind as we talked about grace, redemption, and the profound love God has for us. It wasn't an easy conversation - Tom had some tough questions - but there was a moment when I saw a glimmer of understanding in his eyes. That's when I felt it - that joy Paul talks about, even in the midst of the mental and emotional exertion of trying to explain complex theological concepts.

yesterday: Had a difficult meeting with the Johnsons about their son, Mike. They're worried about his mental health, and honestly, so am I. I found myself in the delicate position of offering spiritual counseling while also recognizing the limits of my expertise. We talked about the power of faith and prayer in healing, but I also emphasized the importance of professional help. It's a fine line to walk - providing hope through faith while not dismissing the very real need for medical intervention. As we prayed together, I was reminded of the "afflictions" Paul mentions - not physical persecution, but the heart-wrenching empathy of carrying others' burdens. Yet, there was also a sense of filling what was lacking - being there for this family when they needed support the most.

Evening: Just as I was about to sit down for dinner, Mrs. Davis from next door called. She was asking for help with deciding on life insurance, and being a widow with no family nearby, she often turns to me for help. As I sat with her, going over policy details and trying to explain the complexities of insurance, I realized how much trust she was placing in me. It wasn't just about the insurance; it was about having someone to turn to in moments of uncertainty.

It struck me then - this is what it means to be the Body of Christ, the church. It's not just about Sunday sermons or Bible studies. It's about being present in the messy, everyday moments of life. It's about discussing deep theological truths over coffee and helping with practical life decisions. It's about sitting with parents as they worry about their child and providing guidance on financial matters to those who feel alone.

Each of these interactions came with its own form of "suffering" - the mental strain of theological discussions, the emotional toll of counseling, the challenge of navigating complex decisions. But each also brought its own joy. I saw it in Tom's thoughtful nod as we wrapped up our conversation, in the grateful tears of the Johnsons as we prayed, in Mrs. Davis's relieved smile as we finished our discussion.

As I finally sit down to reflect on the day, I'm tired. My mind is weary from the heavy conversations and complex problem-solving. But I also feel incredibly fulfilled. This, I realize, is what Paul meant. The joy doesn't come despite the suffering, but often through it. We fill up what is lacking not by doing grand, heroic deeds, but by simply being present, being willing to serve in whatever way is needed.

Today will bring new challenges, new opportunities to serve. There will be more coffee shop conversations, more counseling sessions, more unexpected calls for help. And in each of these, there will be a chance to embody Christ's love, to be His hands and feet in a world that so desperately needs it.

As I sit here and drink my morning coffee, I'm grateful. Grateful for the trust people place in me, for the opportunity to serve in ways both big and small. And I'm reminded that this work of building the church, of being the Body of Christ, is ongoing. It happens in moments of profound spiritual discussion and in moments of practical guidance. All of it matters. All of it is holy work.

In this tapestry of daily life and ministry, I see the beautiful complexity of what it means to rejoice in our sufferings for the sake of the church. It's not always easy, but it is always, always worth it.

Until next time

Chaplain Mark