Mondays with My Old Pastor: Sometimes All We Need Is a Reminder from Someone Who Has Walked Before Us

by José Luis Navajo

A totally burned-outyoung preacher reignites his faith and gathers wisdom for life while spendingsuccessive Mondays with an eighty-three-year-old pastor."Deep inside insome uncertain part of my soul persisted this strange exhaustion that wasdifficult to explain and hard to endure," writes pastor and author JoseLuis Navajo. Thinking of quitting the ministry, Navajo doesn't know where toturn until he begins meeting with a seasoned man of the cloth--his "oldpastor"--who, through successive Monday visits, offers a legacy of wisdomin the form of 15 unique principles.

In lyrical prose, Navajoshares the personal anecdotes, fables, and deep spiritual insights offered bythe old pastor and his wife. By turns funny, heartbreaking, and thoughtprovoking, Mondays with My Old Pastor is a comfort to anyone whostruggles in his or her walk with God. As readers follow Navajo's journeyfrom desperation to rejuvenation, they will find themselves similarlytransformed and inspired. This moving, beautifully written account is sure toreignite every soul's longing for renewal.

Genres: Christian, Faith, Nonfiction, Christian Living

240 pages, Paperback

First published March 1, 2011

Reviews

[Chris · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I picked up this unassuming 200 page paperback I thought it would be your average book on mentoring or pastoral encouragement. I've read many of those over the years and I have kept only a couple of them.

I wasn't sure the world, or my shelves, needed any more. I was wrong, this book is different. It neither claims we need mentoring or asserts the importance of Biblical community. Brother Navajo simply tells us his story and that of his old pastor. Within this narrative a reader will also hear classic tales as told by the Old Pastor. As an avid reader and storyteller, I have to say I loved this book.

Near the end I realized this book has been translated from Spanish and Pastor Navajo is not in America. This demonstrates the power of narrative to embolden us. Every culture and language understands the deep impact of loving friendships. These are two men who deeply care for each other and the mission at hand.

My only regret is that people may see the title and believe this book is for pastors who are struggling. This is a great read worthy of any person who enjoys a great story and needs encouragement.

The frailty of life set against the strength of mission is a powerful mix. Give this book a read and then go out and build a relationship. "Instead of being a man of success, I desire to be a man of value, the rest will come naturally."

This book was sent to me at no cost by its publisher in exchange for this review.

[Keiki Hendrix · Rating 5 out of 5]

What would you glean from a few weeks with a wise man? If you are a burned out, self doubting pastor, a few visits with a man you admire can push your reset button as it did with the author of this book.

Pastors do get discouraged. Many allow this discouragement to cause them to leave the life they first loved. Serving God is not without scars. I know this as a Christian so I know pastors must suffer this at a much higher level.

I selected this book because I wanted to know what an older saint would have to say to a younger saint. I wanted a peak at the advice he would offer. Though written from an old pastor to a younger one, each of these chapters offers hope to any Christian.

If you are a story or parable lover, you'll love this book. Most of the advice given is in story form. If you are a Christian struggling with burnout, you'll find the reason you've grown weary and what to do about it. If you are a persecuted Christian, if you've lost a close family member, if you've ever doubted your call, then pick this one up. Listen to the advice of a wise man, the old pastor.

My favorite quote from the book was "There are some people so poor that all they will ever have is money." There were many life applications I took from this book but the most useful was the journal of wrongs. The chapter where Jose discovers the old man's journal of people's names who had wronged him. I have a prayer journal with people's names I know and love. But, I had never considered keeping a journal of people's name that wrong me for the purpose of praying for them daily. As the the old pastor said, "They are the ones that need prayer the most."

Can you tell I absolutely adored this book? Pick it up if you need some sage advice.

[Carola L · Rating 5 out of 5]

El mejor libro

Honestamente no se si en el resto de este año podré leer otro libro como este. Jamás un libro me había enseñado tanto, he llorado mucho leyéndolo, he reflexionado, he aprendido, me meditado y he sido enseñada. Me alisto para leer los otros libros de este tremendo autor. El mejor libro que he leído hasta hoy, este año no sé si se podré superarlo!!!

[Eliot DeLorme · Rating 5 out of 5]

My mentor recommended we read this book together during a season when I was particularly worn out. It took me a while to settle in and enjoy, but somewhere midway through the book started becoming life giving. The book is a compilation of Monday meetings that a burnt out younger pastor had with an old, wise pastor in Spain. The book feels like sitting with an old pastor. It is unhurried and packed with wisdom. Recommend for pastors or ministry leaders who feel strained, drained and/or are ready to throw in the towel.

[Jonathan Turner · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an easy read, but full of wisdom. I highly recommend this book. I found myself crying at several points in the book. I wish that I had had some of the advice in this book when I was a young pastor fighting the urge to quit, dealing with difficult, and at times, mean people, and feeling very inadequate to lead any church.

[Tammy G. · Rating 5 out of 5]

After being in the ministry for awhile one gets very tired and feels not only unappreciated but quite empty...the bottom of the barrel feeling can take hold...this is why reading Mondays with My Old Pastor by Jose Luis Navajo seemed like a must read for me.
This read beings with a forty six year young preacher who has doubts and some dismay as he thinks of quitting the ministry. "Sometimes, all we need is a reminder from someone who has walked before us." {from from to book}
This O!SO!Good read is a light at the end of the tunnel for those who are feeling discouraged and weary from traveling the ministry road or for those who simply want to regain their strength in God.
As I began reading this book, I was encouraged to read that not all people feel that God's house should be a house of entertainment...."Some churches have converted their alters into stages," he denounced, "And that is a real problem. On stage is where celebrities shine; on an altar is where God's presence comes down. The two are incompatible; we will have to choose: human celebrities or godly impact."
The old pastor has many stories and words of encouragement! Ironically though, his words aren't just for Mr. Navajo. His words strike my heart
to live a life filled with prayer and more humility.
In my mind as I read this wonderful book I named the old pastor Pastor Solomon...for he gives such wise counsel!
This is a book that all who work for Jesus need to read!
*This book was provided for review by BookSneeze/Thomas Nelson*

[Virginia Garrett · Rating 5 out of 5]

You know, every now and again a book keeps coming to your attention and you keep rejecting it until finally you can reject it no more. So you find yourself reading this book you’ve passed over so many times. You’re sure you won’t like the book. You have the “why bother” attitude.

And then you’re sucked into the good book vortex and you have no hopes of ever getting out alive. I just read such a book.

Bet you couldn’t have guessed that, right?

If you are debating reading Mondays with My Old Pastor by Jose Ruis Navajo, please, debate no further and read the book!

Jose Ruis Navajo is a young pastor who is really struggling with every aspect of ministry life. His wife encouraged him to speak to his hold pastor. Now I do need to interject here a moment and let you know the use of “old pastor” is not at all derogatory, but is in reference to his being older and a former pastor.

He calls his old pastor and sets up a time to visit on Monday. Without really the real situation Jose was dealing with he spoke to every aspect of the struggle.

They meet for several weeks and there is a chapter for each Monday. And each one will have you reaching for your pen, or pencil as you underline great truths you’ve known for years but never really thought of it that way.

There are a million quotes I could post here but I want you to read the book. So I’ll just give you one.

“My life has sprung forth from the shade of the cross. I have always lived protected by it, and I want the cross to be the ladder that lifts me up to His presence when my times comes.”

[Rebecca Jo · Rating 5 out of 5]

I cant say enough good things about this book.

Its the story of a pastor that was feeling 'burned out' & was seeking some wisdom. He turns to his old pastor & they start meeting on Mondays. His pastor shares with him Principles of ministry that apply to life... all centered around Jesus & living in the shadow of the cross.

I wanted to inhale this book - but wanted to also take it slow so I could really disgest everything that was shared. I sat with my highlighter & pen & marked up this book the whole way through.

I think this book needs to be ready by everyone - but if you work in or volunteer in ministry, I think its a MUST READ. I already suggested it to the staff at my church. Its just full of encouragement when rough times hit in ministry.

I also love that this pastor tells 'stories' in every principle - I know I will be using some of these in messages that I give myself in the future.

The focus always though is Jesus... His mercy & grace... & that cross... always coming back to the cross.

I loved "Tuesdays with Morrie" & this is similar in the story of 2 men meeting... these conversations though? So much more profound - to me...I will keep this book near through the years.
I will also keep these thoughts in my heart... a new way to look at life & how to life for Jesus.

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this read! I want to reread this again sometime!

[Cerymar · Rating 2 out of 5]

Este libro fue un regalo no pedido, así que comencemos con que no me emocionaba mucho la idea de leerlo, pero quise salir rápido de él así que lo comencé.

Básicamente el libro trata sobre cómo el autor en un momento de cansancio por su trabajo ministerial busca consejo en su antiguo pastor para poder seguir la labor. Hay consejos muy buenos, frases motivadoras y todo se hila en una historia donde se traspasa el conocimiento y la sabiduría de una generación a otra teniendo en cuenta que siempre hay que ir a los pies de Jesús.

Fuera de eso no esperaba que el libro estuviera escrito de una forma tan novelesca, de cierta forma lo aprecio porque me ayudó a fluir en la lectura. Pero hay partes que me parecieron demasiado místicas como lo de las rosas y el mensaje final que les deja el viejo pastor, no sé si de verdad el autor vivió esa experiencia tal cuál lo describe o si de repente se tomó la libertad creativa de hacer metáforas con ciertas cosas, no lo sé. Pero esas cosas me parecen demasiado para mi y de cierta forma me hace pensar que el relato no es del todo auténtico.

Tal vez muchas partes son reales y otras no, o tal vez todo es real, tampoco voy a ponerme a cuestionar las experiencias del autor. Pero esas pequeñas cosas que no me convencen del todo prefiero tomarla con pinzas.

Puntuación real 2.5

[Natalia Bustos · Rating 4 out of 5]

Es la historia de una serie de encuentros entre el escritor y un pastor anciano que le enseña cómo no abandonar su fe ni el llamado para el que Dios lo escogió.

La parte que más me impactó fue una carta en la que el protagonista de la historia escribe:

- “Lo primero que hice cada día; la primera ocupación a la que me entregue cada mañana, fue arrodillarme a los pies de Cristo y contemplarle en adoración. Esa visión ha transformado mi vida. _Si quieres ejercer una influencia decisiva, siéntate cada día a los pies de Cristo y luego cuéntale al mundo lo que has visto allí._”

- “No permitas nunca que tu Biblia sea asfixiada por tu agenda.”

- “Lo que consideramos incómodas tempestades son, con frecuencia, soplos de viento que reconducen nuestra barca a importantes puertos.”

- “La mano de Dios convierte en obras de arte las ruinas del alma.”

- “El milagro de su presencia llena el vacío de cualquier ausencia.”

- “Recorre el camino de la Cruz hasta el final. No abandones.”

[Yomaru Hananoshika · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is really simple yet inspirational. The book is about a pastor who was really devastated and disappointed by his mission and he wanted to quit. Then his wife asked him to find an old pastor for advice. The old pastor used many simple stories to deliver important life messages that I think would benefit everyone.
The book is not necessarily written for Christian because although the context is about the conversations of two pastors, the life messages are applicable to anyone on Earth. I appreciate the story-telling skills of the old pastor and how the stories and examples he used accurately tackle the problem of the questioner every time. You can tell the old pastor is truly wise and will be humbled and comforted a lot while you read.
I highly recommended this book for everyone to be honest. Happily give it a 5*.

[Adam Houser · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoy memoirs. This is a memoir of sorts recounting one younger pastor's visits with an older, wiser, former pastor of his. I struggled a bit with the author's style. It was a bit too "stylized." I had to allow myself to enter into the space and conversations that were recounted in the book. This was not always that easy. Overall, though, there is a lot of wisdom in this book. The older pastor exercised an extreme amount of care for his young mentee and guided him through challenges that he was facing in a loving, yet often direct, way.

[Brandon Vaughan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I openly admit that there is no way that I can be objective with the contents of this book. My Pastor also died in 2013 after a brief bout with cancer and there isn’t a day that goes by that I don’t wish that I could talk to him. Between that and this particular season of my life that I’m in, this book touched me in a very personal way. The book does take a little time to develop, but it finishes like a freight train. It’s full of encouraging wisdom and illustrations. I highly recommend this book.

[Abel · Rating 5 out of 5]

es un libro muy bonito que tanto si crees o no te puede conmover y hacer que te lo replantees y por otro lado si eres alguien que cree en Dios, te va a inspirar, a aleccionar pero también es muy probable que te haga despertar dentro la llama de ese primer amor quizás dormido a casi extinguido, la obra como la vida habla de los momentos duros que toca vivir pero te recuerda que nada es lo mismo si tienes a Dios contigo porque se siente como si nada pudiera tocarte

[Gilberto Santiago · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excelente, habla a pastores y lideres desde la fagilidad que todo lider oculta de las personas que le siguen. Navajo ademas de hablar acerca del liderazgo, lo hace en una narrativa que me capturó desde la primera pagina. No puedo mentir, me identifique tanto que lloré un poco viendome en la dinámica de la narrativa

[Troy McGahan · Rating 4 out of 5]

At the recommendation of some friends I have been reading/listening to this book. It is a great book, especially for anyone who is in ministry or has to deal with someone in ministry. Very real, and encouraging. Everyone needs a mentor and this book illustrates this. Young preacher, find an older preacher to learn from. In the meantime read this book, you will not regret it.

[Ian Alberto · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excelente libro. En momentos dónde te encuentras en duda el libro daba luz

Recomendado. Para poder entenderlo y entender muchas cosas de la.vida, de cómo conocer a Dios y sus misterios, sus promesas y de cuan equivocados estamos muchas veces. Y de cómo prendemos. Prioridad de las cosas verdaderamente importantes en la vida. Fortalece

[Karla Roque · Rating 5 out of 5]

I can say this is one of my favorite books so far that I've read. From the first page to the last I was completely hooked on reading it. I love how storytelling from his old pastor as well as the writer's own struggles made it retalable to me. I've read it twice now because of how much I loved it. I would recommend this book to anyone

[Jess · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a must read if you do any type of ministry; even if you are not a pastor! It is a warm and honest look at what guides us all to ministry and a reminder to us that we must work together despite the struggles that we may face as we help others.

[Laura Pérez O. · Rating 3 out of 5]

Un libro que para alguien que no profesa una religión, es quizá un poco demasiado religioso. Sin embargo las mismas enseñanzas se pueden aplicar a cualquier deidad o fuerza en la que creemos. Las historias son hermosas y te dejan reflexionando.

[Her van Dav · Rating 3 out of 5]

El estilo narrativo muy bien. Atrapa e incentiva la imaginación. Los principios que desarrolla para un ministerio pastoral efectivo me parecieron buenos y lógicos. Pero, debo decirlo, el final no me gustó. Demasiado misticismo para mí, poco creíble, creo que casi echó a perder el libro.

[Kasia Hubbard · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good information, but most I've heard before (the story of the tree = The Giving Tree). I like how it was all put together and the meaning at the end. Very useful information worth remembering. The ending was bittersweet as well.

[Johnny · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very straightforward yet enlightening

Learnt what it means to serve Him through this book more than anywhere I have read. Definitely a book to recommend to those who are being burnt out from serving in church or Christian body

[stanley Philippe]

Me encanta

Este es mi primer libro de Jose Luis Navajo y me encanta. Si estas en el ministerio debes leer este libro. Si no estas en el ministerio, debes regarlarselo a alguien que esta en el liderazgo cristiano.

[Alejandro Ramírez · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tesoro

Un libro que todo hijo de Dios, que anhela servirle fielmente debería leer al menos una vez, para recordar vez tras vez que no se trata de nosotros, se trata de nuestro Señor, y separados de Él nada podemos hacer. Una joya de libro bajado directamente del corazón de Dios.

[Hashemrd · Rating 5 out of 5]

No esperes que este libro estará cargado de teologia y de Exegesis. DEfinitivamente un pageturner. Cheesy a veces, Pero muy buen libro.

[Wilmarie Pizarro · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excelente libro

[Esther · Rating 5 out of 5]

Estás cansado del ministerio? Estás dudando de tu llamado? Piensas que tú servicio es en vano. Esté libro te dará una luz del camino a seguir y te recordará que todo es por Su gracia 🙏

[Jorge · Rating 5 out of 5]

powerful 🔥🔥🔥

Es uno de los mejores libros que he leído. Creo que
cada persona que anhele ministerio o que quiera servir seriamente a Dios debería leer este libro.