Episode Transcript
What does it really mean to bear the weight of spiritual leadership? Start your week with a powerful question and an uplifting perspective as Andrew Forrest, senior pastor at Asbury Church in Tulsa and Seedbed author, takes you inside the heart of pastoral ministry.
In this episode, Andrew guides listeners through the rich, sometimes overlooked details of Exodus 29—delving into ancient ordination rituals, the symbolic significance of “blood on the earlobes, thumbs, and toes,” and the ongoing responsibility and solemnity of being a pastor. He shares authentic reflections on how Monday mornings shape staff culture and why every Sunday is sacred, making the ancient text deeply relevant for today’s church.
You’ll also find practical encouragement on supporting those who lead your congregation, with thoughtful questions and prayers that invite you to consider your own role in the life of your church. Andrew also spotlights the temptations and challenges pastors face, such as discouragement and burnout, and calls on the community to uplift their shepherds.
Key moments include:
An inspiring look at how the seemingly “boring” parts of scripture hold beauty and wisdom for modern believers
Insightful journal prompts that invite you to pray and act on behalf of your pastor, beyond just “thoughts and prayers”
A stirring, personal rendition of the classic Methodist hymn “And Are We Yet Alive,” reflecting on the challenges and joys of ministry year by year
Whether you’re a church member, a ministry leader, or simply curious about the journey of faith, this episode offers compelling reasons to appreciate, encourage, and pray for those who guide God’s people.
Subscribe for more thoughtful and inspiring Wake Up Calls like this—let’s walk through scripture and life together, one meaningful morning at a time.
CHAPTERS:
00:10 Second Week Begins: Reflections on Scripture and Community
01:25 Staff Chapel Rituals: Hymns, Bible Study, and Communion
02:10 Launching "Year Through the Bible" at Asbury
03:01 Prayer: Asking God to Remove Egypt from Us
04:29 Can You Imagine Blood-Speckled Garments at Church?
05:15 Making "Boring" Bible Passages Beautiful and Relevant
06:42 Seven-Day Ordination: The Weight of Sacred Responsibility
07:26 Humor: No More Blood-Sprinkled Ordinations
08:07 Encouragement: Support Your Pastor Beyond Prayer
09:10 Journal Prompts: Deep Questions for Reflection
10:20 Every Pastor Should Have Bloody Earlobes, Thumbs, and Toes
11:47 Methodist Hymn: Annual Reunion and Surviving Another Year
13:54 Emotional Farewell: Value the Weight of Pastoral Ministry
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