Eugene Peterson is a living legend. Carey talks to Eugene about the origin of the Message and the life rhythms he and his wife Jan adopted that helped produce the legacy millions have appreciated.
Plus, Carey follows his conversation with Eugene with a round table discussion with best selling authors Mark Batterson and Adam Weber to discuss Eugene’s impact on their life and leadership.
Welcome to Episode 152 of the podcast.
Guest Links
Eugene’s website
Eugene’s book When King Fishers Catch Fire
Eugene’s book The Pastor: A Memoir
Mark’s website
Mark’s new book Whisper
Mark on Twitter
Mark on Instagram
Mark on Facebook
Adam’s website
Adam’s book Talking with God
Adam on Twitter
Adam on Instagram
Adam on Facebook
Links Mentioned
CNLP Episode126 with Mark Batterson
CNLP Episode 135 with Adam Weber
3 Insights from This Episode
1. Develop a lifetime of Perspective by finding your Rhythms
If you want an example of what living a disciplined life looks like, look no further than Eugene Peterson.
-Reading
-Weekly sabbaths with his wife
-Dwelling in silence
-Dedication to living out the Word
These rhythms became the habits of his life and produced a long standing ministry that has impacted millions.
2. Jesus made time to Retreat and we should, too
Every pastor needs a place to disconnect from routine and reconnect with the Holy Spirit. For me, it’s my backyard. For you, it may be a lakeside cabin or a walking trail. Whether it’s a few steps from your front door or miles away, I encourage you to find this place if you don’t have one.
And when you’re there – the challenge is not to use this place only for sermon prep, but to find rest and growth. A place where you can reignite your purpose and be reminded that our God is so much greater than we are.
3. Pastor in the Present with the End Goal in mind
What do you want your legacy to be? As leaders we all have those mentors, like Eugene Peterson, who’ve poured into us, whether they know it or not. They’ve influenced the way we speak, write and live out our calling. When you’re nearing the end of your ministry how will younger pastors observe the love of Jesus in you? Start grooming yourself now with the end goal in mind.
One more thought – If we don’t honor the generation that came before us, we’re not giving them the opportunity to affirm the next generation. Take time to acknowledge your mentors. Share with others how they’ve impacted you so their legacy can continue to do great things for the Kingdom.
Quotes from This Episode
During the race riots in Baltimore, people were worried about what was happening in the city. I was worried about what was happening in people. - Eugene Peterson Click To Tweet Finally, the riots in Baltimore stopped, but I didn't stop. - Eugene Peterson on translating the bible into the vernacular, which was the origin of the Message. Click To Tweet I never read the newspaper. The newspaper wasn't a big help in understand God or Jesus. So I schooled myself in understanding the great pastors and leaders of the past. - Eugene Peterson Click To Tweet You don't push the gospel down anybody's throat. You act it out. - Eugene Peterson Click To Tweet It's hard to be famous in your home if you're not home. @markbatterson Click To Tweet There's something about mountains or water that's just good for the soul. - @adamweber Click To TweetThe podcast releases every Tuesday morning.
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Next Episode: Clay Scroggins
One of the greatest myths of leadership is that you have to be in charge in order to lead. Clay Scroggins talks about how to cultivate influence and gain authority when you’re not the senior leader. It’s possible, even when you’re young. Ask Clay, he’s doing it under Andy Stanley.
Subscribe for free now and you won’t miss Episode 153.
