For the last several days I have been thinking being a spiritual shepherd--a pastor leading people to actively and effectively pursuing the things that matter to God. Being a pastor is more than preaching a message on Sunday morning. Don't get me wrong, preaching is very important. Paul instructed Timothy to "preach the Word" (2 Timothy 4). However, a pastor not only instructs, he leads--he helps people follow Christ.
The great challenge of ministry is helping people take seriously the importance of seeking first the Kingdom of God (Matthew 6:33). Too many people are becoming content in observing, spectating, and being an audience, rather than being a full participant in God's Kingdom. A couple of days ago someone asked this question (aimed at himself and the people of our church): "How much time do you devote in spiritual pursuits?" Implied in this question is this: if a person is just spending a couple of hours a week (during Sunday services) in seeking God, it is not enough. I think when people are not seeking God like they should, it affects our faith, our trust in God, our confidence that God heals, delivers, sets free, etc...
I believe the time is now for us to change and focus on what really matters: GOD!