How to Induce Anxiety in a Pastor

It almost seems like every time I preach on a topic the Lord tests me about that thing. It's a little weird. This week we're still in the Sermon on the Mount and we're talking about how to fight anxiety. This week the Lord is testing how much I trust in him through the running of the B.A.A. Half Marathon.

No, I'm not running it. I don't have anything against marathons or running in general, but, because of COVID, for the first time in years they are running it along its historic path. So congrats to them for that... The problem is that path cuts off all neighborhoods south of Jamaica Plain from getting into JP without planning ahead. Nothing will induce anxiety in a pastor like people having a difficult time getting to church. So here is the plan...

• First, if you live in JP or take the T to church, you can ignore the rest of this message.
• NORTH: If you live north of JP, don't take Riverway or Jamaicaway.
• SOUTH: If you live South of JP (Like me), you'll need to go around the east side of Franklin Park up to Centre St. in Jamaica Plain.
• EAST: If you live east of JP, you're also pretty good. Just approach the church from the north side of Centre St. (Pass by Jackson Square toward the church).
• WEST: If you live west of the JP you'll need to go toward Fenway before getting into JP because all of Jamaicaway and most of Riverway are shutdown.

Below is an image of the half marathon route. Plan accordingly.

I think tomorrow's message is going to be really helpful for a lot of people, and I hope you'll still be able to make it, even if it's going to be a little more difficult.