Pastor, stick your neck out...

        When was the last time you REALLY stuck your neck out? Yesterday, I did. I stuck my neck out and laid it on the line. I was so uncomfortable sharing in the vulnerable way I did yesterday with our people. I laid it on the line. I was transparent. I was confessional. I was  a little mean at times. I was passionate. I cried. I shared my heart in a real way. It was all I knew to do. I just told people the way it was: in our church, our community, our nation, and our world. I boldly challenged people.  I called for commitment.  I called for people to get off their wallets and get in the game. I led the way. I put my money where my mouth was. Wow, it was difficult. I just knew that when I stuck my neck out, someone would cut off my head! 
        I'm sure I ran a few new people off who figure I'm an idiot. I'm sure some skeptics still don't trust me or this church. Nonetheless, I was obedient. I stepped out there. I felt like God was leading me to stick my neck out in front of my people. And guess what? No one cut my head off! I lived to tell about it! Guess what? the people responded to my transparency and God showed up in our services. People were moved. People gave. People stepped out in faith. Many people stuck their necks out just like I had done.
        Pastor, when was the last time you stuck your neck out? the last time you got GUT HONEST with your people about the reality of the situation in your church? Quit the pie in the sky talk. Quit saying EVERYTHING is great. EVERYTHING'S not great. There are areas your people need to grow in. Your church needs workers and resources to accomplish God's mission for your church. You are overwhelmed? Tell the people. You're afraid? Tell the people. You're willing to lay it on the line? Do it. Them tell the people. Let them hear your determination to see this mission through. Share your heart with them. Stick your neck out. Even if someone cuts it off, you'll suddenly hear a voice saying: "Well done, good and faithful servant."

IN case you'd like to see the message from this past week's message, it will be posted here before the day is out (look for WOW Wii Message Three).

Comments

[Pete Wilson]

That's what I'm talking about! Thanks for an awesome challenge Shawn.

[Ray]

You spoke the truth, you showed your heart and let everyone know where you stood. I applaud you ( or should I say Christ through you). Time and time again I'm reaffirmed (not that I need to be) that I am where God wants me. You truly know God's purpose for you and His people. Thank you for your boldness, honesty and passion.
I'm excited and fired up. Those are to adjectives I'd never use to describe myself before Christ. I'm all in and look forward to continually adjusting my life so that I can give all of me to Him. Thanks again