The unity of God's people

Recently, my wife and I took a short trip to a beautiful mountain town in Washington.

Great peaks, beautiful scenery, but it still pales in comparison to our beautiful land here in Bonner County. Our trip was for a pastors' retreat, and we got to meet up with roughly 40 other couples in ministry all throughout the Pacific Northwest. I am always amazed at how well most of our churches and especially the pastors in our region get along after hearing of what happens in other towns and areas like ours. 

Most ministries are built on the dedication of God-fearing people who have a deep abiding love and passion for their community. A recent study revealed that most pastors find themselves isolated and without real friends outside of their core ministry teams. The burden that many pastors carry as they care and tend for the spiritual health of a community is a burden that often goes unnoticed and unrecognized. 

I believe that our community has some of the best pastors in the world, and most have a desire to see each other truly succeed in their individual and distinctive missions while longing to see live changed and hearts won to Jesus Christ. The Great Commission is just that – a co-mission. It’s not just a sending, it’s a call to do it together. 

I know that with all the tribes, denominations, styles, doctrinal differences, and distinctive styles of worship there is a heart to love one another as Christ prayed for His followers to do.

I hope that for all believers, the wounds from the past, and hurts from leaders will be forgiven and that we will enter into a season of partnership and growth as we walk out the ministry of reconciliation. I also pray that we might encourage one another as we co-labor together for the Gospel.

Galatians 6:9-10 says, “And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith.” 

We all have a choice on where to worship, and who we choose to influence our lives, and I pray that we engage our pastors and leaders with the grace we would expect, and give the encouragement needed. 

I am grateful for our region and the body of Christ that is revealing the love of God in so many dynamic ways. If it comes to mind, it might be worth encouraging a pastor you know as we give thanks for all God is doing here.

Chris Bassett is the senior pastor at Harvest Valley Worship Center. You can find out more at hvwc.com.