This is a question that came to me from a young, introverted pastor who struggles to know how to talk to older people when he goes to visit them. I would like more and more young pastors to know their weaknesses and want to grow up like this young brother. Because I think it’s a growing struggle, especially among young shepherds, here’s the answer I gave this brother to his questions:
I appreciate your question and your desire to grow in this field. I know being an introvert makes it harder. First, learn to be comfortable with silence. Whether you are trying to speak to an older person at home or standing in front of the church after asking a difficult question while leading a discussion, silence can be good. If you learn not to be so uncomfortable with silence, it will help you think about what to say next and speak more clearly. Second, all it takes to visit older people is a greater effort to learn what they like and what they like. Talk to your closest friends or family at church and find out what interests them, as well as ask yourself questions about their interests. I have an older widower, a WWII veteran, in his eighties and in poor health, but he still has an amazing mind and loves history and politics. I love history and tolerate politics, but I always ask him questions in both areas because he is an extreme introvert who makes it difficult for him to speak at times. However, I still enjoy my visits. It’s amazing how people come out of their shell when they talk about what they know, like, and most importantly think you are interested in hearing. I hope this helps. Remember that when you visit older people for no particular reason, in addition to spending time with them, you already demonstrate a huge declaration of love and affection for them. Do not forget. You may be worried about awkward moments of silence when they like you to sit in your office.
- Pastors.
- Follow the suggestion of this younger brother eager to learn.
- The uncomfortable silence and uncomfortable feelings they feel when they try to visit their flock in their church are not justifiable reasons to stop visiting and neglecting them.
- Strive.
- Insist.
- God to bring back entrusted souls into our care (Hebrews 13:17).
- Shame and uncomfortable silence will be a careless excuse to use before our main shepherd.