Messages for the Younger Marcus
In line with a blog post written by one of our coaches, Jessica Carlson, I thought it would be good to share the messages I would give to the younger me after more than 25 years in ministry.
Find a Pastor
Pastors need pastors too. I would tell the younger me to make sure that he had a pastor in every setting and season to care for his soul. This is different from a counselor or spiritual director but connecting with an actual pastor.
Don’t Settle
I have always been my own worst enemy and worst critic. Early on in my ministry career, I got in my own way all the time. These issues combined with insecurity caused me to stay too long, put up with too much and believe too little in myself. I would tell my younger self to not settle, to at least try for all that God might have for me.
Show Yourself More Grace
This is the big one. As I mentioned already, I am my own worst critic. I am also very driven. As an enneagram 8, I constantly push and know only 2 modes, all in or not at all. I would tell my younger self to be more kind and gracious to me. I would constantly remind the younger Marcus that he is a beloved child of God with whom God is well pleased in even his worst moments. I would urge the younger me to embrace God’s unconditional love and grace fully much sooner in life.
What would you tell your younger self?
Rev. Dr. Marcus J. Carlson, Executive Director
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