Weekly Update // Pastor Will
Hi friends,
I generally consider myself an optimist.I tend to see the positive side of things and can usually bounce back when things don’t go my way. However, if I’m not careful, I can slip into skepticism.
This past week, I had the incredible blessing of celebrating my nephew’s wedding in a small town just outside Carrollton, GA. I reunited with family I hadn’t seen in a long time, which was truly nourishing for my soul. We returned home late Sunday evening, and I got to hug my kiddos again—I was on cloud nine! But then reality set in. Looking at my calendar, I realized I had an all-day clergy ethics meeting on Tuesday (rescheduled due to Hurricane Milton) and another clergy gathering in Windermere on Wednesday. It was shaping up to be a busy week, and while I knew both meetings were important, I wasn’t exactly thrilled about how full my schedule had become.
Now, I fully understand that clergy ethics meetings are important, but I found myself wondering if the online session we did in September could have sufficed. I also thought, “Since we’ve already gathered online, couldn’t we just call it even?” I’ll let you guess how that turned out! :) But as I went through the Tuesday training and gathered with my fellow clergy on Wednesday, I realized how necessary it was. Not justto check a box, but for my own benefit—and I imagine many others feel the same.
I want to take a moment to say how grateful I am for the way Asbury loves its pastors. The generosity and love poured out during Pastor Appreciation Month has been overwhelming. So many of you recognize the challenges of ministry and take time to say, “Thank you for what you do. We know it’s not easy.” That means the world to us.
As I reflected on the training and gathering, I couldn’t help but think about how the early Methodists got their name. They were called "Methodists" because of their methodical approach to faith and spiritual disciplines. John Wesley and his followers were intentional in how they lived, prayed, studied, and met together. Their methodical habits weren’t just about routine for the sake of it—they were about being prepared. Prepared to serve, lead, teach, and ultimately respond to God’s call on their lives
In the same way, these clergy meetings and trainings today help us stay equipped for the ministry we are called to. They may not always be exciting, but they’re crucial for keeping us grounded, knowledgeable, and supported in this work. Like the early Methodists, engaging in these rhythms allows us to be better equipped for the challenges and joys of ministry. These practices prepare us to fulfill the good work God has called us to, both individually and as a community.
So, while I may not always be thrilled about back-to-back meetings, I’m thankful for the preparation they provide. And I’m grateful for the support we have from each other as we continue to live out our calling.
Looking ahead, I want to remind you of a couple of events coming up. On Saturday, November 2nd, we have the United Methodist Men’s Breakfast at 7:30 a.m. in the Fellowship Hall, with Tony Rosenburger as the guest speaker. If you missed hearing Tony preach a few months ago—or even if you didn’t—you won’t want to miss this! This event is open to everyone, not just the men of the church.
Additionally, this Sunday, October 27th, we’re hosting a Blood Drive from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. If you’re able to give, it would be a huge help to those in need. Lastly, I want to thank you for your generosity in giving to UMCOR (United Methodist Committee on Relief) to support those affected by recent storms. If you’re able to continue contributing, it would be greatly appreciated.
In worship this Sunday, we’ll continue our Revival series, focusing on how
Methodism cares for the whole person—meeting physical needs like food,
education, and healing, alongside spiritual care. We’d love for you to join us
and maybe bring a friend to either our 9:30 a.m. Contemporary Service or our 11:00 a.m. Traditional Service. Both will also be live-streamed on Facebook and YouTube if you can’t make it in person!
Thank you for all that you do, and for
loving me, my family, and the other pastors and their families as we attend to
the work God has called us to.
Grace and peace,
Pastor Will