Herbert shows us how to be honest about the struggles, doubts and insecurities we face as pastors. Herbert also shows us the way out: we come to a place of vulnerable honesty about our weaknesses. In our weaknesses, then, because of Jesus we can be truly strong. In the forgiveness and salvation of Jesus, we can stand redeemed and ready.  

Though we are weak, Christ is in us, the hope of glory. He is not dead, but lives in me. And in him, we can be ready to lead and to love, to pastor, to teach, to serve and to sweat, to raise families and change diapers, to buy groceries and plant gardens, to love our neighbours, to laugh and to cry, to live and, at the end of all things, to learn how to die – that we may one day rise again in Him, at such a time when he renews us all.

Discussion reflection question (150-200 word paragraph for each question, please)

• Is there an area or issue in your life where you struggle with insecurity? Have you given this area over to Christ?
• How does Herbert’s poem, ‘Aaron’, help you to appropriate the grace and truth of Christ in this area?