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“Mondays with My Old Pastor: Sometimes, All We Need is a Reminder from Someone Who Has Walked Before Us”

“The Value of a Ministry Mentor”

“Monday’s with my Old Pastor” speaks to the value of having a ministry mentor. As a young church leader, I have gleaned much from the wisdom of many who have walked before me in ministry.  

Pastor and author Jose Luis Navajo tells the account of a period in his ministry where he was experiencing fatigue, burnout, and disappointment. When he sought a diagnosis from his doctor, his physician prescribed rest. I take heed of the warning to schedule regular rest.  I’ve had several older pastors warn me about a minister’s time and energy being precious and essential to maintain a sabbath. Though I am not a pastor, but rather a ministry leader and church consultant, I still encounter the stresses as sometimes described that accompany vocational ministry.

I enjoyed chapter three, “The Third Monday: Servant of God or Church Executive” the most. Pastor Navajo opens with the epigraph “God is not as interested in our productivity as much as He is in our life. He loves fellowship much more than production”. Through this conversation with his “old pastor”, the difference between activity and accomplishment is discussed. Being about God’s business is a high and honorable call of which we all are to participate. However for the vocational minister, God’s business does not mean being consumed by busyness. As my mentor says, “meetings are not ministry”. Perhaps the most compelling thought Navajo’s old pastor offers is “don’t work for God, work with God” (p. 44).

Other advice the old pastor shares includes wisdom on topics of disappointments, grace, and spiritual renewal. All who work in ministry would do well to read “Monday’s with My Old Pastor” and find a wise “old pastor” to sit at the feet. A very encouraging read!

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”