The Shepherd’s Cross: The Pastoral Calling in Community Life
Ebook
To those who are called, the shepherding ministry is meant by God to be one of life's greatest joys. Yet like a clipper ship sailing past the tip of a great unknown continent in the dead of night, this joy is vast, unexpected, and easy to miss.
For many, the initial joy of shepherding souls fades into exhaustion, resentment, even burnout. It does not last. It was not meant to. Much of the early reward of ministry done well is rooted in the gratification of the natural self. The immature shepherd fails to glory in weakness and naturally prefers to glory through strength, giving God the credit of course.
Jesus said, "If anyone would come after me . . . he must take up his cross." But why a cross? For the joy set before us. Only ministry embraced as an opportunity to die will reduce the temptation to eventually hate it. Only when walking in the power of a crucified life will a minister be anything more than powerless. Only once fallen to the ground and perished will a leader bear much fruit.
So wrestle that shepherd's cross on your shoulders. There is much joy yet to be discovered.
“This book is a treasure trove of wisdom and insight, much of which I have observed Aaron practicing as my pastor over the past fifteen years. While reading, I felt challenged to more readily and wholeheartedly walk the path of the cross. Aaron’s words will inspire you to follow in the footsteps of Jesus in every area of your life and ministry.”
—Eric Rozeboom, president, Alaska Bible Institute
“The Shepherd’s Cross is an invitation for all of us who are shepherds in the church to see if our hearts are aligned with the Chief Shepherd. With both theological and practical insights, A. R. Weisser challenges us to examine our actions and our motives. He also reminds us that while carrying the shepherd’s cross is challenging, it is also life giving. Every pastor and elder would benefit from this book!”
—Matt Shada, lead pastor, Steadfast Omaha
- Title: The Shepherd’s Cross: The Pastoral Calling in Community Life
- Authors: A. R. Weisser, Rick Wise
- Publisher: Resource Publications
- Print Publication Date: 2023
- Logos Release Date: 2023
- Language: English
- Resources: 1
- Format: Digital › Ebook
- ISBNs: 9798385201082, 9798385201068, 9798385201075
- Resource ID: LLS:9798385201082
- Resource Type: Monograph
- Metadata Last Updated: 2023-12-05T22:00:44Z
A. R. Weisser has a PhD from Columbia International University and is a former commercial fisherman and carpenter turned church-planter, pastor, speaker, and writer in Homer, Alaska, where he resides with his wife, Jenny, and their eight children. He serves full time at Church on the Rock Homer.