A Pastor’s Heart

October 2013. Pastor Appreciation Day for Marcos, who officiated at Linda’s and my legal wedding on August 24, 2013.

I know that every morning, my name’s on your lips in prayer.
I know that when I’m reaching out, you’ll struggle to be there.
You don’t travel a higher plane than those around you do;
You simply let us know that someone treads this one with you.

Leader of our pilgrimage and teacher of our souls,
You have offered nurture from the start.
Jesus called us all to be a light unto the world,
But we feel in your light a pastor’s heart.

You’ve labored as a midwife, taking part in each new birth;
You teach us we can be a part of bringing peace on earth.
You’ve fasted for our home and have in us such hunger stirred.
You’ve brought us Living Water, and we’ve feasted on the Word.

Pastor de mi espirtu y de mi corazon,
Usted nos da direccion y amor,
Jesus llamo usted para cuidar para nos,
Por que tiene el corazon de un pastor.

This shepherd knows the sheep by name, does not give in to hate;
You risk your life to keep all enemies outside the gate.
And yet you guide us tenderly and, with matchmaker’s prod,
You help us plan our wedding feast and fall in love with God.

Leader of our pilgrimage and teacher of our souls,
You have offered nurture from the start.
Called by Christ to lead this flock into eternal life,
For God has given you a pastor’s heart.

I have tried to follow your example from the start,
Shepherd of my spirit, and pastor of my heart.