Grumpy but Serving
26 September 2025
This website has been down for over two years because of issues with the WordPress template and its plug-ins. Not only that, I've been down for two years as well, because I'm grumpy. My church attendance has been down and my engagement is also in the toilet. I could give a flying "you-know-what" about what this organisation does. I'm grumpy and perhaps even a little angry. I believe I even turned off the auto-renewal for this domain — why should I spend the $20 to renew it when I could buy something that brings me more happiness and keeps my mind occupied by pleasant thoughts?
One of the pastors in Brighton asked me, by text, to give a testimony on "Keeping the Faith." She suggested I share about a time when I struggled to keep my faith but rediscovered it later through an experience. I didn't respond, and really struggled with what I would say. Later she asked again, and my response was, "Why would you want grumpy James up there?" and "I don't have anything much to share." But she encouraged me.
It got me thinking of Colossians 3:23:
Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men.
My previous faith tradition taught me a lot about my work ethic and how we have to serve each other. We use our talents for good, as they are gifts to us from our Heavenly Father. So here I am: grumpy, tired, slightly over it, but going right back into the arena. I do this because God wants me to do it, and obedience isn't always pretty, but it is what I'm called to do.
So the website is fixed. I'm posting things here knowing full well that only two or three people will ever see it. I'll never win any awards, be a guest on a podcast, or have a parade thrown in my honour. Gone are the days when I expect any feedback. As long as God is happy, I'm happy.
If you are grumpy, know that you are in good company. God understands. He knows of disappointment; He likely sees it every day. Take some time to heal and be ready to serve again. Once you return, someone will be happy to see you.