“I wanna walk, A mile in your shoes, wanna walk a mile in your shoes, I wanna know what you’re thinkin, watcha fellin so I really wanna walk a mile in your shoes!” This song was written in the 80’s and expresses a sentiment that still holds much validity. It is difficult to sense what others may be feeling unless we know what it was like to walk a mile in their shoes.

A few weeks ago I was invited to take a position as interim pastor. It will be a six month term in an established church. It will give me the opportunity to again experience the day-to-day responsibilities and challenges of pastoral ministry. During this time we will be readying our new ministry home for many more years of rest and spiritual refreshing for pastors and spouses.

Since the day we began these retreats for pastors six years ago, it has been such a humbling experience to host these friends, as God has taken my brokenness and failings and used it all to welcome, comfort and encourage our treasured guests. And, there is nothing they share with us that I have not seen or experienced first -hand. The Redeemer has shown me that we can be effective in means of hospitality and listening, showing our ministry friends that nothing is impossible with God. When we partner with Jesus, miracles will take place.

These next months will be a time of preparation. Rooms will be decorated, walls painted, carpet and windows cleaned. Much prayer and planning will be invested. And, I will get a refresher in pastoral life. I wanna walk a mile in your shoes again. And, we want to provide the best experience of rest and renewal possible.