2 Corinthians 4:9

The Message (MSG)

7-12 If you only look at us, you might well miss the brightness. We carry this precious Message around in the unadorned clay pots of our ordinary lives. That’s to prevent anyone from confusing God’s incomparable power with us. As it is, there’s not much chance of that. You know for yourselves that we’re not much to look at. We’ve been surrounded and battered by troubles, but we’re not demoralized; we’re not sure what to do, but we know that God knows what to do; we’ve been spiritually terrorized, but God hasn’t left our side; we’ve been thrown down, but we haven’t broken. What they did to Jesus, they do to us—trial and torture, mockery and murder; what Jesus did among them, he does in us—he lives! Our lives are at constant risk for Jesus’ sake, which makes Jesus’ life all the more evident in us. While we’re going through the worst, you’re getting in on the best!

I think it is easy to get lost in the crazy parts of ministry.  The brightness of our lives start to dim.  We find ourselves in seasons of just going through the motions.  I’m only speaking from my experience but at times in the past I knew in my heart that God knew what He was doing.  Yet the things I saw all around didn’t reflect that thought.  When the motion of our lives are found here I think we all need to be reminded that things are alive not dead.  We might be down and even broken but the lives were pouring into are true reflections of Him.  When we stepped into this world of ministry we had no idea our lives would be flipped upside down.  As I read this verse I’m encouraged.  We may be feeling the worst or even wondering if this what you signed up for.  This in no way is an easy road. In fact it may be the hardest part of your life. Yes there are many moments of pure joy but when we do face the valleys and the deserts how will we respond?  There is nothing safe, secure or predicable about serving Christ.  But something inside of you knows this is your life. Not just some job or career but the very thing you were created for. 

I have been to so many places and events where I have talked to those in ministry. Many times people just feel defeated or that they wonder if it is really worth it.  I know we all face days that are tough but at times those days stretch into weeks, months, seasons and at times maybe even years.  It can be tough when those pressing in on us are suppose to be like minded or in the body of Christ with us. Our passion to save feels like the very thing that is weighted at the bottom of our feet and pulling us down rather than the thing that gives us flight and drives us.

I believe this to be where the Lord continually leads me.  He has brought such gifted, talented and amazing people my way. We have laughed, cried, and risen together to the things the Lord has laid in front of us.  I am constantly amazed at what is brought about in these times.  As I listen, and listen and then listen some more the Lord is able to reach in and bring light, freshness, restoration, healing and more. It is nothing I do on my own. Being able to speak about problems in ministry is vital.  Doing it without judgement, caution, backlash and with total confidentiality is essential.  When we do this the weight that is tearing at our soul, making us weary, restless and alone starts to float away.  It is in many ways like a secret. It is brought to the light where it can be restored. Yet so often in ministry we are not given the chance to bring our feelings, our true unadulterated feelings to the light.

I feel amazed that the Lord has entrusted me with people whom He loves.  People He truly cares about. I, like the scripture realize it is not me that welcomes people to share such things but the Spirit working in me.

This website really is just an extension of who I am.  I have a heart for all people. Especially people in ministry.  I just want to be an encouragement to you. If you're reading this and relating to this then you're in good company.  My heart really is to just offer an ear if you would ever need to talk to someone.  You don't have to spill your guts to me or you can if you want but take the time, give me a chance to meet you, hear your story and pray for you.

Believing for possibility
Tony Jacobs

Contact me at tjcollidingmoments@gmail.com or call or text me at (909)-471-6897.  Colliding Moments services confidential.