We can make several points about cruciformity that will help us to see that this is the most hopeful reality possible for pastors and ministry leaders. First, being a person claimed by the cross means that God is pouring out resurrection life on me to renew the image of God in me (Rom. 8:29; 2 Cor. 3:18; Eph. 4:24). That involves God’s transforming me into a true and renewed human in the image of the Son of God—a human who is enjoying life in God’s good world according to his original design. An essential part of that design is following the Sabbath rhythms of creation—work and breaking from work in order to be refreshed. Pastors who are shepherding communities in the way of Jesus, therefore, keep themselves refreshed by following the rhythms of renewed humanity. Sundays are “workdays” for pastors, as they lead communities in celebration of our identity in Christ. They would do well to select some other day on which to take a break from responsible care for the life of the church.

_

Excerpted from Power in Weakness: Paul's Transformed Vision for Ministry by Timothy G. Gombis ©2021 (Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co.) Reprinted by permission of the publisher.