Something we all need to hear

I am on the record for saying that one of my favorite books about pastoring is “The Imperfect Pastor” by Zach Eswine. In chapter four he is describing a conversation he had with a mentor of his back in college. The mentor knows that Zach is longing for approval and for others to notice him. This way of thinking and feeling is usually camouflaged with the mantra of doing great things for God’s kingdom. This conversational exchange left me teary-eyed because it is exactly what I needed to hear. Maybe you will feel the same way.

I was a long-haired college kid. Bob was a campus minister with the Navigators Christian ministry. He regularly invited me to come with him for prayer in forgotten places. I look back now and marvel that Bob saw this as no waste of time. I’m grateful. Often, after a couple prayerful hours, we would sit together to talk. One time, Bob looked at me.

“Zachary,” he said. “You are already discovered.”

“What?” I asked.

“Whatever happens in your future, with all you dream and hope for, I want you to know that getting discovered has already happened to you. Jesus already knows you, hears your prayers, and delights to know you.”