Pastor Frank: A Model Minister

Layton's pastor, Rev. Frank Norwell, had baptized him, performed his wedding, and counseled him through his divorce. He had been there for Layton through all his ups and downs, especially when Layton's dad died. So why isn't Layton thrilled to see Pastor Frank in the waiting room during Brianne's surgery?

Pastor Frank's appearance is a stark reminder to Layton that his relationship with God isn't exactly cozy at the moment. Sensing Layton's spiritual struggle, the minister gently probes with the skill of a surgeon for those tender places of the heart, looking for a point of entry. Pastor Frank is a rare blend of caring and confronting. Being a minister of God's comfort is his calling, but he's equally willing to make a person uncomfortable. "How are things between you and God, Layton?" he asks.

It's the last question Layton wants to hear—or answer—yet he can't get it out of his mind. Eventually, Layton will have to deal with it. But first, he must go through some intense pruning of his soul to make it ready for new fruit. Pastor Frank waits and prays. He shares when Layton wants to talk, but he's also happy to listen.

We discover the human side of Pastor Frank quickly. He loves sports—especially Vanderbilt football—and his dear wife Myra. He also knows how to suffer. Pastor Frank doesn't think he's earned any chips with God that he should be able to call in when needed. He deals with adversity like we all must—one step at a time—with a confidence in God that develops over many years of faith in His Person and plan.

Pastor Frank knows what we're up against, and he also knows that the church can't make the difference. There aren't enough hours in a lifetime of church-going to replace a relationship with God honed through daily encounters with Him and His Word.

Pastor Frank knows God without being stuffy or unapproachable. He's comfortable around those who aren't where he may be spiritually. He's not likely to hold a grudge but extremely likely to lend a helping hand. Does this make him a super saint? No.

He worries that he hasn't been the pastor Layton needed. He thinks his divorce counsel was inadequate. He isn't sure that it's not too late for Layton and Amy, but if not, what to say? Like all of us, Pastor Frank can't make things right for others, but sadly, he can't even make them right in his own family.

Do many people have a minister who is this involved in their lives? Who cares this deeply? Who models such love and compassion? Probably not. But wouldn't you want him to be like Pastor Frank?