Comments on: What Do I Value

By: Kassandra Quick-Vana

Kassandra Quick-Vana — Mon, 03 Mar 2025 02:00:22 +0000

Steve, your words resonate deeply with me and then add the dynamic of being a female when a number of religious institutions and communities still say that pastors cannot be female. And I agree that it would be so much easier to just step away from the opinions, and when I am tempted, God seems to faithfully remind me that I am in this “place” for such a time as this. May you be encouraged by this same reminder!

By: Steve Lindley

Steve Lindley — Thu, 27 Feb 2025 22:21:29 +0000

In reply to Shelby Clark. Yes, absolutely. Being "on the outside of the inside" also enables us to see things we wouldn't be able to see if we were right in the middle of it all.

By: Steve Lindley

Steve Lindley — Wed, 26 Feb 2025 21:32:41 +0000

In reply to Katy Cuthill. Thanks, Katy! I have to be really intentional about stepping back/away to listen for God's voice ... to hear God's truth. And honestly, there are many times I'd rather just stay there.

By: Shelby Clark

Shelby Clark — Wed, 26 Feb 2025 21:31:49 +0000

Dear Steve, I really appreciate the thoughts that you have shared here. I too relate to the feelings of not quite fitting in, as well. I often use the language that I feel like I am “on the outside of the inside.” I once heard David Brooks describe that the outside of the center is a powerful place to be, because that’s where bridges can be built. It can be a lonely road, but I try to remind myself that it’s holy work. This language “there is an underlying expectation of who a pastor is…” really speaks to me. I feel like there are so many roles I could replace with the word pastor– mother, academic, therapist, etc. Thank you for putting words to those feelings, because it reminds me that I’m not alone! <3 (I need WordPress to offer emojis)!

By: Steve Lindley

Steve Lindley — Wed, 26 Feb 2025 21:29:33 +0000

In reply to Brigid Smith. Thank you for your encouragement, Brigid! My experience is that most would rather you be a peacekeeper, rather than a peacemaker.

By: Katy Cuthill

Katy Cuthill — Wed, 26 Feb 2025 17:04:42 +0000

Ooooweee, I felt this post. Wow. Thank you for your authentic sharing. It has me thinking about where is God/Spirit/Universe’s voice amongst the other voices?

By: Brigid Smith

Brigid Smith — Tue, 25 Feb 2025 09:16:40 +0000

I relate to the feelings of not fitting in, it’s really challenging to be called to leadership in that context. I really appreciate your perseverance and commitment to being a peacemaker, even though it’s hard and even unwelcome in some ways. You’re not alone!