Too tired for words...

Today, as I try to put pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard), to get the sermon done for this weekend, I find myself overly exhausted. I am not sure what is going on...I have had a quieter week than normal, have done a better job of taking care of myself, working out, eating healthier, and yet still find myself with no words to say. I would give a lot for someone else to come in and preach, and just be able to sit and listen to the gospel. Not have to lead liturgy, but be able, like most of our people in the pews to walk into the building, enjoy some fellowship time, worship with the people sitting next to me, and go home to enjoy the rest of a Sabbath Sunday.

But instead, I find myself here again, at the keyboard, with nothing to say on this week's texts, and no good ideas on where to find the words. I have been "working" on this sermon longer than most, and it still doesn't exist. These are the days that I wish I was a 9-5 worker, with some true sabbath time on the weekends.

The perhaps most ironic thing, is that I had last weekend to not preach. I had last weekend to not do liturgy. And now I long for it more than last weekend!

But honestly, if I had to pick the thing that is missing most from these weary preaching bones, it is true friendship. Someone I can call up on days like today, and meet for coffee and talk through the text and get a renewed perspective. I long for my friends near my last call...and try to continue to make it through this one.

So, those of you out in the blogosphere, how do you preach when your tank is running on empty? Any suggestions for this weary pastor?

Your friend on the good days and the hard ones,
Preaching Kate

Empty Cup

Today we learned that the senior pastor will be telling the rest of the staff of his situation. I approach this with a combination of relief (finally everyone on staff on the same page) and apprehension (how will they all react?). I cannot imagine how he is feeling. I find it difficult, because I know that he needs a pastor in these moments, but also know that I am not at a place where I can offer that to him. I can support him, but also need to support the rest of the staff, and however they are feeling after tomorrow.

So, oh wise blog readers, today the question is...when you are new to a community, when you are new to a congregation, where do you go to get YOUR cup filled? I believe we cannot give to others when we are running on empty. And today, quite honestly? I am feeling just that.

Praying that God is filling your cups today,
Preaching Kate