Hello all,

I am writing you from my presbytery meeting (Rocky Mountain Presbyterian Church in America) in Billings, Montana. I tell you this because Rocky Mountain is where my pastoral credentials are currently held. Presbytery meetings open with a worship service involving a sermon which was given by Dr. Mark Dalby, who served as the president of Covenant Seminary in St. Louis. The sermon text preached was from the famous “Love” chapter of 1 Corinthians 13. His main idea was that the pastor should be characterized by the Biblical description of love, just as much as their competency in theology and leadership. This might seem like a no brainer, but more often than not we over value pastors ability in preaching, leading, organizing, training. These are not the values that Jesus had for His ministers. Think of the contrast between how Jesus taught his disciples to lead, by serving the least of these, and the way the “gentiles” lead. (“Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants would become great among you must be your servant”, Matt 20:26) Dr. Dalby ended with this story, “When my son was 13 I held up a Bible and told him, if there is anything in here that you see in contrast to what you see at home…tell me about it.” That story cut to my heart. I know that love as described 1 Corinthians 13, is not consistent with what is seen behind the scenes of my life. Also, I think I am not alone. My encouragement to our church is to do that same practice with those who know us well. Find someone who you love and trust, read 1 Corinthians 13, and ask them where the contrast is in your life. It will hurt, but it will be good.

Ben Melli