I’ve recently ‘dropped off the map’—rather dramatically—not just from blogging since April, but from my job and social media as well.

The Minister must meet God.

There is a time in the work of ministry that the minister must rise early in the morning, while it’s still night, to go away into a deserted place for prayer (Mark 1:35). There is a time when the minister must send the crowds away at evening time, and climb the mountain privately for prayer (Matthew 14:23). There are times where the minister will need to break away from service, and withdraw into the wilderness for prayer (Luke 5:16).

Because I’d neglected that time for prayer, I found myself compromised and confused, my service in the ministry and marriage suffering as a consequence, that even when I did pray, the prayers seemed to be hindered (1 Peter 3:7) – until they weren’t.

It’s sort of ironic that I’m conducting this “quick” post at the Black Coffee Rifle Company, drinking some hot smashed pumpkin latte (Laura had the lavender-lime latte). It’s our first time here, and I must say, it’s a cool military/law enforcement/first responder serviced’ place!

“AAATTEEENTION!”

An old-timer marine yells from behind us, I assume to see who would stand to give attention considering the activity in this place; that was funny, we smile-laughed discreetly. However, Laura informed me that it was for his service dog with him, which, due my ignorance, made it even more funny. We don’t actually know if it’s a service dog, but to make the story more dramatic… just go with it.

It’s ironic because of the responsibility a believer in Christ Jesus has as a spiritual “first responder/police officer/military personnel/[insert title]/security officer” human being operating in this world of darkness and evil. I think the all-encompassing ministerial job title we believers must become is, “Ambassador”. I emphasize “become” because of the danger of claiming a title not yet trained to have, which might remind you of what the apostle Paul wrote to Timothy:

“Not a new convert, lest being blinded with pride he fall into the judgment suffered by the devil. And he also must have a good testimony from those outside, that he may not fall into reproach and the snare of the devil.” _{—1 Timothy 3:6-7}

My service through writing must come to an end for now, and withdraw into the “wilderness” for prayer.