Tackling Ambient Anxiety through Invitation
A Pastor today used a curious phrase about his retirement. I could tell he had been a good Pastor to his people but he said his leaving had raised the “ambient anxiety” of the congregation. This systemic and chronic anxiety in a church only spikes when the congregation is made uncomfortable in some way, like a beloved Pastor leaving, or being asked to step out of their comfort zone and invite. Jesus said don’t be anxious and don’t let your hear be troubled. So face your anxiety and invite someone to take a closer look at Christ and His church.
