by Pastor Jared Ott
This was my first reaction to our communications department when they said “we should have a church blog”. Outwardly, I tried to play it cool, like I really knew what they were talking about, and that I truly understood what a blog was, how it worked or what it was for. They went on to use a lot of technical language in describing the process, and wanting to fit in with them, I responded with “that is a terrific idea!” Then the reality hit me and I thought about the reality that now I am stuck with pretending I like know what they are saying without actually asking them and sounding ignorant. I panicked and looking for a way out, so I did what any other great leader would do at this juncture and said “You know, I love your initiative with this, what are your thoughts and goals with this blog?” This response was a real win-win! First, I didn’t let on that I had absolutely no idea what a blog was, thus maintaining my stature to the staff that I was “cool” and belonged in the 21st Century and secondly I was enlightened to how a church blog could really be an encouragement to others!
You see, I came to the realization that there are many leaders in our church at different places and demographic of life that can encourage others in similar situations and circumstances…more than I ever could. As I started reading some of the blogs from our pastors, staff and church leaders I realized very quickly that church blogs can be so powerful because they speak truth about God and His Word in the reality of the world in which we live. I was reminded that people can find God working in everyday ordinary things of life, and this is where the encouragement happened. You see, as a pastor I am often the one encouraging others, but I have found that others can encourage me because they are at different seasons and demographics of life. The encouragement in these times can powerful, as ALL situations and ALL circumstances can point to Christ.
Then it really hit me. Encouragement and building others up in the Lord should come from all of us. As I read these blogs from other pastors and leaders I am reminded of the verse from I Thessalonians 5:10-11 where it says “He died for us so that, whether we are awake or asleep, we may live together with him. Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing”.
I have come to understand what a church blog really is. I realize that is is not just someone’s thoughts on life, but it is a devotional on a circumstance or situation in life that offers encouragement as it points to our Heavenly Father. This is what a church blog is, and now I get it…and I hope you get it too.
Blessings,
Jared Ott
Senior Pastor
Christ Church at Grove Farm.
