At first thought I can't bring to mind a job that requires a general knowledge of so many areas of expertise and so many skill sets as that of a pastor. It is comical to think that on a day-to-day basis so many men (and women in some denominations) are required to weigh in and offer insight on a bevy of issues and challenges. Just think about it: on any given day a pastor is called upon to be a marriage counselor, grief counselor, personnel manager, facilities manager, long ranger strategic planner, event planner, hospitality coordinator, salesman (yes we sell everyday in some way or another), teacher, financier, athlete, etc. You get the picture, and I know I forgot some stuff too.
All of this is not entirely new to me; as a small business manager/owner I got used to wearing many hats. But at the end of the day I didn't answer to any man and the bottom line is what mattered. However, in pastoral ministry any and everyone in the church is happy to offer their thoughts, criticisms, and suggestions. This is truly unique; I suppose that politicians can relate to this on some level too. Sometimes you just have to laugh at some of the comments that fly out of folk's mouths. Anyway, the daily grind of dealing with all of this can get to you, as can the expectations and judgmental musings of so many. If you couple that with the fact that pastoral ministry is unlike other jobs in that spiritual life and death hang in the balance you start to see what can be a very stressful job.
Well, what's the point? First, I want to say that I love being a pastor. I love sharing in the lives of others; I love it when the light bulb comes on and someone grasps a spiritual truth. I love it when someone makes a decision that is life-changing in a positive sense. I love getting to know people and being a part of the most important events of their lives. I love that I have a job that cannot ultimately be judged by a bottom-line (though some want to judge it that way) and has eternal implications (well, everything is about God, but pastoral work is more intense in this way). I love it. But the real point is that those of you who have a pastor need to be lifting him up in prayer and offering him encouragement and help. He has a great and grave responsibility, so give him a break please. In addition, remember that your pastor is dealing with spiritual warfare on a very deep and real level. Also, remember that he is a human and is entitled to make mistakes. These mistakes make him human and allow him to relate better to you!!!
So the next time you don't like how he hit the ball in the softball game or handled a motion in a business meeting give him a break; he can't do everything well! He is merely a jack of all trades who ultimately is called by God, serves God, and answers to God...
If you are a pastor reading this, please give me your thoughts on the matter;)
