Pastoral resilience and the theology of the cross.
A conversation with Raphael Mnkandhla.
It was an absolute delight to be the inaugural guest on the “Fueled Pastoral Resilience” podcast, which is hosted by my friend and brother in ministry,
. Since moving to Pennsylvania, Raph and I have forged an indelible bond over our love for preaching, theology, and pastoral ministry. This shared affection is manifest in this episode as we discuss how the cross and specifically the theology of the cross propels pastoral resilience even amid the darker and more turbulent days of ministry. Martin Luther’s assertion that “the cross alone is our theology” (crux sola est nostra theologia) is no mere cold doctrinal tenet. Rather, as I explain in the episode — as well as in my book, Finding God in the Darkness — it is precisely in and by the paradigm of the cross that sinners and sufferers are introduced to the very heart of God himself. Accordingly, any fragment of Christian hope and faith, not to mention pastoral resilience, is found nowhere else but in the passion and resurrection of the Christ of God. Within this sixty-minute conversation, Raph and I unpack this subject as well as other related topics pertaining to biblical theology, pastoral ministry, and living by faith. I pray you are blessed as you listen to it.
If you want to read more about how the theology of the cross informs our view of faith and suffering, I invite you to pick up a copy of my book, Finding God in the Darkness: Hopeful Reflections from the Pits of Depression, Despair, and Disappointment, throughout which I seek to show the profundity and grace of the cross amid life’s sorrow and grief.
Grace and peace to you!