MAN OF CONSTANT SORROW? 5.18.09
by SteveOne of my all-time favorite movies is “O Brother, Where Art Thou.” I love the off-the-wall humor, and especially the character played by George Clooney. In my estimation, the best part of the movie is when George and the boys sing “Man of Constant Sorrow.” I know, of course, that they are lip-synching, but the music, the lyrics, and the gyrations of the singers are hysterically funny.
Every time I have seen the movie, I’ve been reminded that Jesus himself was known as a “man of sorrow, acquainted with grief.” I’ve often wondered why, since so little of that side of him is portrayed in the gospels. After most of my lifetime now in the ministry, I think I know: maybe it’s because he was so often disappointed with his followers.
Lately, I’ve been feeling the crushing weight of pastoral responsibility as never before. Ministry has become more difficult, people seem harder and harder to reach, and fewer people seem to want to commit to anything. I’m hoping this is just one more valley, and not the last one.
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Wow, Steve! As each Sunday passes and it seems you are being transformed before our very eyes, I am more and more thankful that you are my minister. You challenge me to be more thoughtful and Christlike. You offer such a rich variety of knowledge that challenges me to be committed to discipline and church. Then that commitment leads to a deeper relationship with God. Thank you for this gift and you are in my prayers, even in the valley.
Thanks much! If I had a church full of folks like you, the valleys would be few and far between. Blessings…
Steve, the valleys may be many but the peaks get higher and higher. Just wanted to say thanks for challenging my disbelief. You would be suprised how far your reach has extended.
Now THAT picks me up! Thanks for taking the time!
This is a great article. I’m new to blogging but still learning. Thanks for the great resource.