Update March 2019

I was leaving a memorial service in Sun City recently when I received a call about a crisis in a west side church. The elders in a congregation of 1000 people had fired their main teaching pastor and two staff members. Other key staff had resigned. They were holding a congregational meeting that night to process the pain and anger that was dividing the church. The pastor they had called for help was in the hospital with an emergency. They were hoping I could attend and moderate the meeting.

I accepted this assignment with trepidation. These situations can be volatile. I love local churches. They are the spiritual families which enable believers to grow and develop into mature followers of Jesus. Like families going through divorces, when churches go through divisions, many believers get confused and disillusioned. Having a good outcome to a meeting with hurting people can make a big difference in their lives.

As I drove to the congregational meeting that night, I was thankful for each of you who pray for me and support me in this ministry. I stepped aside from leading Living Streams with the hope God would use me to help other churches. Yet, in that moment, I wasn’t looking forward to this assignment.

Over 400 people showed up to hear from the elders of the church and process what had happened. When people love deeply, they are vulnerable. Most of these folks were hurting, some felt betrayed, others were mature and wise. It was a test for me to know what to share with them, and when to be silent.

As I drove home a couple of hours later, I was thankful. The Holy Spirit gave us grace to process this painful situation in a productive way. We talked and prayed honestly and openly. They have been through a painful pruning. The church is now moving forward, and healing is happening by the grace of God.

For the last few years I have worked with a group of Christian leaders to fulfill the prayer of Jesus in John 17:21, I pray that all of them may be one, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world will believe that you have sent me. Jesus said our unity will open the eyes of the world to the reality that He has been sent to us by the Father.

We have recently completed a book which describes some of our work in building bridges between Catholic and Protestant believers from diverse backgrounds. Our strategy has been to love and understand one another, rather than to correct and fix each other. Love and understanding are good foundations for effective ministry and good marriages as well. The Holy Spirit has blessed our times together. If you would like a copy of our book, John 17 The Heart of God, email Kristina at info@markbuckleyministries.com and we will be happy to send it to you.

I’ve been preaching in many different churches lately. Jesus approached each ministry opportunity uniquely. As I pray and prepare, the Holy Spirit gives me scriptures to preach or teach. Some ideas come on the spot, as the Lord reveals things which are unique to the situation. It’s important to know the Word of God, stay filled with the Spirit, and be available. Ministry does not always feel exciting to contemplate in advance. However, when the Holy Spirit gives words of wisdom, revelation and encouragement to people, it’s wonderful to experience. A lot of ministry is for the person doing it, as well as the people receiving it.

May the Lord bless you, your family, and your ministry. May you have courage to speak the Word boldly and share your testimony freely. Today is the day of salvation for those who receive the grace of God.