honesty

At some point in a project, you have to be honest that you have nothing new to say, or at least nothing worthwhile, at least not yet. 

And even that is not entirely true. Some wonderful things and some heart wrenching things are happening right now, but because of requested confidentiality, I can't publish them at this level. Trust me, when I am able to share, I will. But as of now, this ejournal experiment is seeming quite difficult because I must filter much of what I say.

This can feel dishonest, if not with you all, then definitely with myself.  


In another light, this is a vital practice for congregational ministry. I have much weighing on me, and it is not all appropriate to ubiquitously share everything I know. There is a difference between keeping secrets and selectively sharing information. A church budget is everyone's information. The marital issues of a particular couple is not. At some point, we must discern what is appropriate to share, and how to share it. The internet is often the last place, rather than the first place, information ought to be shared. 

This has a lot to do with prayer. Those situations on my heart are a constant conversation piece with God, and with a select few people who are praying on my behalf, as well as offering wisdom, discernment, and companionship along the journey. Consider again a couple whose marriage is on the rocks. Not everyone needs to know that, but there ought to be a select few people, including their pastor, who share in prayer, discernment, support, and guidance for each individual as well as the couple as a whole. This isn't dishonest, but it is a healthy approach to dealing with sensitive information.  


So perhaps I do have something worthwhile to say. 

Be careful what you publish on the internet. Sometimes internet is better shared in person, where people in flesh and blood can take joy in your celebration, or mourn alongside your grief. Get a select group of people who you trust and love to pray for you. You can let the entire internet know, eventually. First, consider how sensitive the information is, the people who will be affected, and how that knowledge will shape your future. 

You might need a group of close friends to help discern the answers to questions like those, and I am thankful for those who have been a part of my discernment process as of late.