As I sit down to reflect on my call experiences (on June 4, 2021), the Gospel reading for this Sunday is Mark 3:20-35. In this story Jesus’ ministry is rejected by all those closest to him. His family tries to restrain him and thinks he is out of his mind. If that is not enough, the elders - religious authorities - accuse him of ministering through the power of the prince of devils himself.
I am sure that kind of reaction would have sent me looking for a different direction in life, but not Jesus. My experience was quite different. I was quite shy as a teen and young adult. The annual traditions of our rural congregation that involved me speaking up front with other children were almost nightmares for me. It was music, band and choir that slowly helped me overcome that fear and the paralysis from being up front.
My sense of call was nurtured by interior work of prayerfully listening for God’s direction for my life and many affirmations from people and communities that nurtured me. These communities included Elizabethtown College, Camp Swatara (counseling summers of 1982 and 83), my home congregation of Free Spring/Lost Creek in the Southern PA District, and a wonderful mentor, Carl Zeigler. Later I found supportive and encouraging communities at Susquehanna Valley Ministry Center, Bethany Theological Seminary and congregations I have served.
I feel deeply humbled and grateful for the countless times in those formative years people showed interest in my participation and leadership around church, college, or camp activities. I am so thankful for the times I clearly remember people saying, “Have you thought about ministry Mike?” I’m thankful for the time as a youth I didn’t do particularly well upfront and a Sunday School teacher came to me afterwards and said, “Mike it’s okay. You did fine.” These people and memories remind and challenge me to notice, to show interest in and to encourage young people. It is vitally important.
In wrestling with Mark 3 I realize, like Jesus' family, sometimes I have trouble recognizing God in those who might be less refined or who have ideas or methods that differ from the norm.
Lord have mercy. Let’s do better.
Michael Benner, Pastor
Everett Church of the Brethren
Middle Pennsylvania District
