Memoirs of an Ordinary Pastor

I recently finished Memoirs of an Ordinary Pastor by D. A. Carson. In this account, the New Testament scholar gives insights and memories of the life and ministry of his father Tom Carson. His ministry is not one of flash and fame, but of extraordinary faithfulness. Tom Carson was faithful to the little things of ministry while serving in a difficult place (French Canada) during a difficult time. His son writes, “Between 1950 and 1952, Baptist ministers spent a total of eight years in jail for preaching the gospel.” Yet he turned down opportunities to leave for more favorable conditions and remained determined to “stay because I believe God has many people in this place” (His son comments that this is referring to Acts 18:10 and his father’s perseverance in the doctrine of election).

Additionally, Tom Carson was faithful in loving and caring for his family. This is particularly evident in his looking after his wife during her struggle with Alzheimer’s. This ultimately became his ministry and yet he never complained or grumbled about his circumstances. He continued to faithfully plod along.

Tom Carson faithfully fought the good fight. He labored to study and memorize Scripture and stayed before the Lord regularly in prayer to his dying days. His final sermon was preached just six weeks before he died.

Though his ministry was not overwhelmingly fruitful or his name famous, Tom Carson was faithful and he finished well. I found his story inspiring and encouraging as I struggle to finish well.