The following was written by D. A. Carson and John Woodbridge in the form of a fictional letter to a young pastor published in the book Letters Along the Way: A Novel of the Christian Life, pages 226–227:
Feed people the Word of God, pray for them, love them, convey the reality of God’s presence to them by word and deed.
What is important at the end of the day is the church–ordinary churches trying to live faithfully in a rapidly changing society. Ordinary churches pastored by ordinary people like you and me, knowing that we cannot do everything, but trying to do what we can and seeking God’s face for His presence and blessing so that His dear Son might be honored and His people strengthened.
Tony Reinke 
Tony, I’d be interested to hear what you think of Letters Along the Way.
Actually I would love to re-read this book again in the near future. It’s been many years since my last time through it. Are you thinking of a review of sorts, John?
[…] Very Interesting Post about Pastoral Ministry and Ordinary Churches I was reading Tony Reinke’s blog and came across this quote, “Feed people the Word of God, pray for them, love them, […]
No, I just know that this book has had a “cult” following and I’ve always wondered whether to spend the time reading it. I suppose your desire to re-read it is a good indication that you think it’s worth the time.
[…] (HT: Tony Reinke) […]