November 27, 2024 -- Aaron Batdorf
To my shame, I did not read the Narnia books until this year. Thanks to my son, we are working on our second time through the series (this time, in the correct order, publication not chronological). Now that I have, though, I hear references everywhere. I was listening to two different podcasts recently that, to transition from the introduction to the actual topic, said, “Further up and further in!” taken from The Last Battle.
When my son and I read The Voyage of the Dawn Treader recently, I was struck by how C.S. Lewis described one of the main characters, Eustace. Lewis goes to great lengths to make sure the reader does not like Eustace by making him annoying. He complains a lot, has no sense of adventure, and is a wet blanket of a character. Lewis points out several times, though, the reason Eustace is like this is because, “Eustace had read only the wrong books.” What an indictment!
The point Lewis makes is a good one: books shape us. Eustace is the way he is, in part, because of the books he has (or has not) read. Reading the right books is crucial in pastoral ministry.
Encouragement for Rural Pastors to Read the Right Books
I do not want to place unnecessary burdens on you—sufficient for itself are the burdens of pastoral ministry—but I do want to encourage you to read the right books. Rural pastors often face unique challenges—limited access to resources, isolation, and the pressure of wearing multiple hats in small communities. In this context, reading can feel like a luxury or even an afterthought. Yet, I would argue that this is precisely why we need to be intentional about filling our minds with the right books. When resources are limited, books can be a wellspring of wisdom and encouragement.
Good books can act as mentors when we don’t have access to seasoned pastors nearby. They can inspire creativity when we’re tempted to grow weary of doing the same things week after week. And they can remind us of the bigger picture when the smallness of rural ministry feels discouraging. Reading isn’t just a personal discipline—it’s a way for us to care for our souls and an investment in the health of our ministries.
I know that finding time to read isn’t easy. Between sermon prep, visits, community involvement, and family responsibilities, the hours slip away quickly. But even if it’s just 15 minutes a day, those minutes add up. Consider incorporating reading into your daily rhythms—whether it’s early in the morning with a cup of coffee, during lunch breaks, or as part of your winding-down routine in the evening.
If you’re wondering where to start, seek out books that address the specific challenges and opportunities of rural ministry. Look for titles that center on the gospel, pastoral care, and spiritual formation. Books like these will help you stay rooted in your calling and provide a sense of camaraderie, even when ministry feels lonely. As you read, you’ll find that the right books not only shape your thinking but also remind you that you’re not alone in the work God has called you to. If you’re looking for specific recommendations, here are a few books that have helped me.
Books that Have Personally Shaped My Ministry
One book that has had a lasting impact on me is Word-Centered Church by Jonathan Leeman. In a world full of trends and quick-fixes, Leeman’s book reminded me that the preaching of God’s Word is not just one part of ministry—it’s the heart of it. This book solidified my conviction that the preaching of the word is the primary way the church is directed and grows. Preaching and teaching the Word faithfully is our most powerful tool for growth and discipleship.
Or The Trellis and the Vine by Colin Marshall and Tony Payne. This book offers practical wisdom on building a disciple-making culture, something especially relevant for rural pastors who may be juggling multiple roles. The call in this book is that every member has a role to play in the church's growth. As a matter of fact, the elders at our church are reading through it currently and have had great conversations at our meetings.
Lastly, Andy Naselli’s How to Read a Book is an invaluable resource for pastors looking to build a habit of reading effectively. In this concise guide, Naselli not only covers how to choose the right books but also how to engage with them in a way that maximizes learning and spiritual growth. For those of us in rural contexts where time is scarce, learning how to read efficiently and wisely is a game changer. Naselli’s insights can help you sift through your reading list and make sure you’re investing your time in books that will genuinely benefit your ministry. He also includes more specific examples of “must read” books.
Conclusion
It’s easy to overlook how much we are shaped by what we read, but as C. S. Lewis shows through Eustace, the books we consume can either lead us astray or transform us for the better. For those of us laboring in rural ministry, where the work can be isolating and demanding, reading the right books isn’t just a matter of personal growth—it’s essential for effective shepherding.
Books have a unique way of providing guidance, comfort, and even correction when needed. They broaden our perspective, renew our zeal, and root us deeper in the truth. In the quiet and often hidden spaces of rural ministry, where we may not have easy access to conferences, mentors, or bustling communities, good books can stand in the gap.
I encourage you to prioritize reading—not as another task to check off, but as a vital part of sustaining your ministry. Whether it’s books that sharpen your theological understanding, strengthen your pastoral care, or simply remind you of God’s faithfulness, the right reading will equip you to serve more effectively. As you continue to grow in your calling, may the books you choose draw you closer to Christ and His work in and through you. And may it never be said of you that you read only the wrong books!
Aaron Batdorf was born in Pottstown, PA but after attending Lock Haven University, God opened a door for ministry with Big Woods. Aaron is married to Brianna, and they have two children, Zadok "Zae", and Eleanor. Except for a year and a half away for education, Aaron and Brianna have been in Lock Haven since college and enjoy the outdoors, coffee, sitting on the porch, reading, and helping people follow Jesus faithfully by applying God's Word to all of life. Aaron has a burden to see people grasp the deep things of God and teaching others to go and do likewise through discipleship. Aaron earned his PhD at The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary.
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