hitting me on the back of my head and laying me out across home plate. After that, I became a reluctant catcher. Pastors can also feel reluctant to stretch in a new direction, fearful of risking their neck in the process. Many emotions swirl within us as we begin a new ministry. These emotions are neither good nor bad. But we are wise to monitor them so they don’t undermine our work. First, we may begin to wonder if we’re using our time wisely. I felt guilty for not working afternoons during the