I should be in the office more.
I should be out in the community more.
I should pray more.
I should visit more.
I should spend more time studying.
I should leave now or I’m going to be late to my next meeting.
I read a lot about how pastors are experiencing burnout and are struggling with self-acceptance. But even I know that pastors don’t have a monopoly on feeling the pressures of day-to-day life and second guessing every move. We all have the potential to believe the rumblings that tell us we are not enough, we are not doing enough, we should be farther along by now.
When I am overcome with “I should” moments that rumble “I am not enough,” is it possible I am forgetting that I am a part of something greater than myself?
Brené Brown reminds us that belonging starts with self-acceptance. “Your level of belonging, in fact, can never be greater than your level of self-acceptance, because believing that you're enough is what gives you the courage to be authentic, vulnerable and imperfect.”
In Paul’s letter to the Romans we are reminded of this acceptance with others.
May the God of endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude toward each other, similar to Christ Jesus’ attitude. (Romans 15:5 CEB)
I am grateful for a community of faith who reminds me that I am not alone. I am enough. I am loved.
I should not forget that!
Pastor Jo
September 18, 2023
