itinerate

2/3/11 United Methodist pastors have a particular word in their vocabulary: itinerate. It means that when we answer the call to be an ordained elder in the church, we agree to move where the Bishop sends us. Yes, we are consulted about the move. Yes, family situations are taken into account. But we still surrender to the authority to the Bishop who sends us much like a general would deploy resources and personnel to win the battle.

This itineracy concept is one of the hardest on my relationship with my wife and two sons. We have been blessed in the churches where we have served, but there is a level of anxiety that comes when you don't know where or when you might be sent next. The boys have left behind friends. Cathy has left behind employment that she enjoyed.

That's why I love my breath prayer for the day, from Psalm 112:6, "For the righteous will never be moved; they will be remembered forever." Did you get it...."Never be moved." No more itineracy. I may be in my last appointment. Only God knows for sure. Only the Bishop says "Move."

On a deeper level, we are all just passing through this life on earth. We are all on a journery. We all itinerate. Maybe to not be moved and to be remembered means to stay close to God forever in relationship.

Love,
Lynn