Mapping the Territory
There is the greatest practical benefit in making a few failures early in life.
Thomas Henry Huxley
The probability of someone watching you is proportional to the stupidity of your actions.
A. Kindsvater
As a Scout, I took pride in the official Boy Scout compass I hung on a lanyard around my neck. On our trail hikes I would pour over the topographical map of our area, orient myself with compass and landmarks, and then proceed to provide our scoutmaster more running information about the countryside than he probably cared to hear. I learned to pick out the springs, cliffs, creeks, and landmarks that told us where it was safe to hike and camp.
There are probably few things more hazardous than a patrol leader with a map and compass, but I did develop the skill to read the territory. Like most people, I liked knowing where I was going.
Knowing what to avoid also helps. In later years when I led backpacking groups in Yosemite, knowledge of maps and compass helped us steer clear of campsites without water, trails that led nowhere, and unnecessary switchbacks. Most of us prefer not to set out like Lewis and Clark, adventuring into uncharted territory. We like to be familiar with the lay of the land.
Discovering the common potholes and pitfalls of ministry makes sense, too. Although any particular ministerial journey remains largely an unknown, few unique opportunities for mistakes crop up. Other ministers have been in the territory before, sometimes slipping in the mud or falling in the creek, but nonetheless blazing trails. Their experiences can prepare us who follow for the general hazards out there.
Mistakes in Orientation
Beginning the journey on the right trail is crucial. Had I led backpackers north from Tuolumne Meadows, we never ...
Like the preview? To read this complete article
and 20,358 more in the archive—JOIN NOW!
Easily find high-quality, well-researched materials that provide a Christian perspective on topics ranging from headlines to history.
Start using this invaluable tool TODAY for preparing your Bible studies, presentations, class lectures, sermons, meetings, and more.
|
It's easy and quick to join:
Brought to You by Christianity Today Int'l |  |
|
| 
Find similar articles
E-mail this page
