In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus says: “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.

“For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”

When times are tough, I find soul-deep comfort in these words. Maybe you do as well.

In many ways, things feel markedly easier now than they did a year ago. We have so much to be thankful for. I pray that we will never again take for granted the simple pleasure of being able to gather together!

And yet, we know that ministry is a complex and demanding vocation even in the best of times. I want to acknowledge that the past two and a half years have been beyond “tough” for many pastors and deacons. As we light candles and sing familiar carols this Advent season, let us also pray for the hearts, minds, and spirits of our Christian leaders.

Come to me, and I will give you rest, says Jesus.

The latest issue of Story explores how pastors and other Christian leaders care for their own mental health while walking with their parishioners through life’s difficult chapters. In a similar vein, you’ll also learn about a powerful new clergy coaching program from Faith+Lead that recognizes the unique challenges of Christian ministry.

And for a special treat, we take a sneak peek inside one of the best places to reinvigorate your soul on campus: the library’s extraordinary Rare Book Room (once called “Hogwarts in Minnesota”).

I wish you a blessed season of comfort, rest, resiliency, and hope as we await the coming of Christ.

Peace,

Robin J. Steinke
President