Sustaining inspiration long-term is hard — but necessary — ministry work
As clergy, we often find ourselves at the intersection of deep theological reflection and practical ministry. One question that becomes relevant in this context is: What inspires you? For many of us, inspiration is rooted in our relationship with God and Scripture. However, inspiration is not a static concept; it is dynamic and multifaceted, affecting how we engage with Scripture and the world around us. When do you feel most inspired? Leaders need inspiration to see old problems in new ways. Perhaps you are inspired during intimate encounters with God — through prayer, study or worship. The Spirit rejuvenates your passion for ministry and refreshes your mind to approach problems with new perspective. The more we pay attention, the more we will find that inspiration can also come from the everyday experiences of ministry. The stories you hear about changed lives, unexpected conversations with an Uber driver and listening deeply to the testimonies in our congregation can become powerful reminders of God’s redemptive work in the world. As with most practices that support and shape our faith, sustaining inspiration over the long haul is more challenging than being inspired once or twice. Ministry is demanding, and it’s easy to become weary or disheartened. It feels counterintuitive, but the busier ministry gets, the more important it is to step away to recharge your spiritual and emotional batteries. Read a book. Watch the sunset. Participate in continuing education. Take up a hobby. New ideas and relationships can help you discern fresh insights to invigorate your leadership and inspire new ways to serve your congregation. When you are inspired, your passion becomes contagious, motivating your congregation to deepen their faith and engage more fully in their spiritual journey. Inspired leaders lead inspiring organizations. Where will you find your next source of inspiration? |
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| Engaging with natural materials and making things with our own hands can help us be more fully incarnate, writes a pastor and knitter. |
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| Stalking the wild birds near his home on the Canadian coast provides a chance to focus and be still, writes the president of Vancouver School of Theology. |
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| Learning to be inquisitive and openhearted can make way for all sorts of possibilities. |
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| The executive director of Leadership Education at Duke Divinity writes about the significance of ministries that renew neighborhoods and congregations and how such catalysts inspire him to live more faithfully. |
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| | At moments when Christianity seems gripped by scandal, reassurance can be found in vital work being done by congregations and faith leaders. |
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Recently, I did something I’ve talked about doing for years: I took sailing lessons. Lots of people learn to sail as children. It becomes a way of life in their families. This was not the case for me, but as an adult, I’ve found the ocean to be a particularly inspiring place. I go as frequently as I can, which isn’t nearly as often as I’d like. When I discovered sailing, it took my love for the water to new heights. The feeling of the wind and the movement of the boat invigorate and inspire me. Learning the technical aspects of sailing reminds me that there still is much to know about the world in which we live. I don’t know what inspires you but I do know that we all need inspiration. As the summer draws to a close, I hope you’ll make space for the Spirit to give you new eyes and new vision. You can always reach me and the Alban Weekly team at alban@duke.edu. Until next week, keep leading! |
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| Editor Alban at Duke Divinity |
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