Week 1 Reflections

It has been a pretty full first few days. Now that I'm the full-time Worship Pastor at Woodburn Baptist Church, the rhythm of my days is familiar again. Sort of. Here are some brief thoughts...

I have prayed for the folks in my area of ministry. I already wish I'd done more of this, but I am grateful that I've had the honor of praying for the men and women that I'll be serving. Really grateful.

I have spent lots of time with people. This is one of the few things I've done that I know, without a doubt, is great use of my time. I'm learning about those who are serving the worship ministry, the rest of the pastoral team, and other folks who are passionate about the church. I've probably met with more than 20 people already.

I posted a question on Facebook & Twitter asking for suggestions from people about places to eat in the  area. Later I asked about other things to do. Part of that is because I really want to know those things. But the other result is simply getting to hear from people. That's always a win.

I have spent lots of time getting things in order. I don't know about you, but when I need a piece of music or a book or any other resource, I like to know where it is. So I  have organized most of my office. And have had help organizing the choir room and music library. There won't be much time to do these things after rehearsals are in full swing.

I have driven around Bowling Green and Woodburn, simply getting familiar with the major roads and the places to eat, shop, and hang out around town. It has really helped me acclimate to the culture. I was given a beautiful gem of wisdom from one of my mentors--to enter the town as an immigrant, not a tourist nor a conqueror. I'm working at this daily.

I have met deadlines. I want to be credible, a worker with integrity. Last minute planning and enlisting of musicians makes people feel pressure. I yearn for them to feel freedom instead. So I have done pretty well at getting music chosen, musicians lined up, and making the music available to those musicians. (and audio/video folks)

I have gone as deep in conversations as seemed appropriate in my initial encounters. I want to know people, not just names. I want to hear the hearts of those I serve. I want to know their dreams for this city, this church, and their own journey.

I haven't done very well at taking time off. I need to make a firmer start next week to take a Sabbath. I need to do better at turning off the technology and thinking about "work" after I'm home for the evening, even though home is (for now) a hotel room by myself. I know that good rest makes for good work. I just need to do what I know.

I also need to finish a few more tasks that are incomplete. I've made lots of progress, but need to put some things to bed so I can move on to new tasks.

And I need to constantly remind myself to listen more than I talk. This is one of my greatest challenges.

More praying. More listening. More resting.

Overall, I'm very pleased with my first week. And I'm enormously excited about the coming weeks, months and years. More about that next time.