We all fall down

I am sure everyone is aware of the recent occurrence and allegations concerning Pastor Ted Haggard.Pastor Ted is the senior pastor of New Life Fellowship in Colorado Springs, CO. I won't go into the details of the allegations but would like to make a biblical request for all of us who know him and are aware of all he has done for the kingdom to lift him up and keep him in your prayers.
It always amazes me that when a pastor or leader misses the mark we are all ready to "hang him in effegy" instead of extending a hand of mercy and grace in helping him to be restored. When I first heard of the allegations my heart sank and I was deeply sorry for what happened. Everything has not come out in the wash however, whatever it was it is not going to be good. Many people have been effected and changed by the obedience of Pastor Ted and many will be effected by his alleged shortfall.
I want to remind all of the biblical way to handle such a situation in the church. Galatians 1:1-4 states, "Brothers, if someone is caught in a sin, you who are spiritual should restore him gently. But watch yourself, or you also may be tempted. Carry each other's burdens, and in ths way you will fulfill the law of Christ. If anyone thinks he is something when he is nothing, he deceives himself. Each one should test his own actions. Then he can take pride in himself without comparing himself to someone else.
In a situation like this our goal should be that of restoration and self examination--we are all human and have our issues that could have a destructive effect on our lives if we yield to them. So at this time let us pray for Pastor Ted and let us humbly remind ourselves that we are also human and are often tempted. The bottom line is that we should never give in to our weaknesses and allow them to put us in a compromising situation--let us "watch ourselves" when these things occur and pray for all affected by this mistake.

Looking inward and reaching outward,

Pastor Franko