Malachi 2:7 “For the lips of a priest ought to preserve knowledge, and from his mouth men should seek instruction – because he is the messenger of the LORD Almighty.”

This sets a high standard indeed, but not an unreasonable one. I wonder if Catholics use this verse in training/admonishing their priests? Most Protestants don’t use the terminology of “priest,” but this verse should apply equally to any shepherd of the flock. Lots of pastors would like to be this way, but the following verse applies to them instead, because they follow their own ambitions instead of the Lord. That’s another reason for James’ admonition that not many should become teachers: if someone does it seeking the respect and recognition they think it will get, they’ll lose even that reward. (James 3:1) The motivation for becoming a priest/pastor/teacher should be a desire that people know and follow the Word of the Lord, and above all, a conviction that God has chosen and is sending you. That should bring a profound humility that you can’t possibly do the job in your own strength, so you seek God daily, moment-by-moment even, to receive His strength and guidance.

I came to where I am somewhat by the back door, so to speak. My major motivational gifting is Teacher, (Romans 12:6-8) so I have never drawn back from teaching anybody anything – sometimes whether I knew anything about it or not! However, I never especially wanted to be a pastor. Having watched my father, I knew that it could get really messy, with irregular hours and countless stress of all sorts. When I came back to Japan in 1981 it was with the desire and intent of being something of an “elder statesman” for churches, traveling around teaching the Word – when I was all of 33 years old! I had pastored a rural church in Virginia for a couple of years because the Lord had made it clear to me that I needed that sort of experience to be able to relate properly to Japanese pastors, but it wasn’t something I wanted to repeat. Then the Lord brought me into a situation where I had sheep, and if I didn’t shepherd them, no one would! I have resisted that call in various ways over the years, and my resistance has benefited no one, least of all myself. I’m finally, fully at peace with it, now that I’ve hit an age when a lot of people retire! I am to be faithful as, and as long as, the Lord enables me, seeking always to be His agent rather than thinking I can accomplish anything on my own. He has been faithful, and I know I can trust Him to continue to be so, and to do even amazing things for His glory.

Father, Your grace is indeed amazing. When I think back over the road I have traveled, I marvel that I didn’t fall off of cliffs or get washed away by floods. It’s been quite a journey, and there’s more to go! Help me receive each day from Your hand, functioning as Your agent indeed in my own life and in the lives of those with whom You have me interact. May all I am and say and do draw people to You, for their salvation and Your glory. Thank You. Praise God!