The winter term began today at WSC. This four day course cover the basics of pastoral counselling and a brief over view of what to expect when pastors bring the Good News of Jesus Christ to their congregants, not only on Sunday morning but also during counselling sessions. One thing I noticed right away is that counselling happens more often than I realize. Converstations with family, friends, and fellow seminarians all include, whether one perceives it or not, a time to share. Christians are called to carry each others burdens, procaliming the Gospel through encouragement and living in a covenant community.
I’ve been fascinated by this field. One reason is that I need it just as much as another. I’ve experienced wonderful times of growth through one on one discussions and through small group ministry. Too often though that is not the case, and I am culpable of not opening up and sharing whats on my mind. The public and private worlds seem so far apart for me, and I pray that this area of ministry would be fruitful, especially since I desire to help others with areas of discipleship.
I am grateful for the biblical commitment to counseling that Jay Adams, Ed Welch, and Paul Tripp offer in the area of pastoral counseling. In some ways I’m drawn more to this aspect than the theological concepts I appreciate. (doctrines of grace to name but one) Now I see a more integrated approach that addresses sin, the heart, and how man seeks to run away from these truths.
