Then came my kids wanting to disrupt my, “I have to get this done so the neighbors don’t hate me” list, asking if we could go on a hike in Dahlonega (which, if you haven’t been and you’re looking for a great retreat to… you know… Sabbath… it’s a great spot in the North Georgia mountains). Young man, young lady… Your dad has plans and avoiding an HOA fine, and making sure the staples of my wardrobe are clean are at the top of the list.

Things. Have. To. Be. Done.

Brother, our kids can become “provoked” not just by harshness but by absence. Read that again if it’s helpful. If needed, I’ll double down… Saying, “I love you” loses its beauty when our kids feel less than loved.

If I don’t get this right, I could either crush the people who serve alongside me while likely causing wreckage to their families or even their faith. And just as possible, I could end up carrying an unhealthy team that drags the whole church down. Both options end in hurt.

In this sacred calling and the stewardship of it, in our roles of husbands, fathers, and pastors - if we win the admiration of our church but inflict wounds to our marriage and on our children, we’ve lost where it truly matters.