Ministry is Different...

Let’s face it. Ministry is Different. Yes, every job has its unique complexities but Ministry is Different. In case you think I’m overstating the case, let’s unpack that a little. 

It’s tough. A minister is on call 24/7. Yes, so is a plumber. But if a plumber doesn’t want to take a call, it’s not that big a deal. There’s another one in the phone book and you don’t really care which one, you just want a plumber.

It’s tough. The minister deals with really intimate personal information. Yes, so does any counselor. But the counselor can put the file back in her cabinet and basically forget about that client until the next appointment. And at 4 they clock out. The minister MUST care for his “clients.” 

It’s tough. They deal with life and death matters. Yes, and so do surgeons. But the surgeon has one job and years of specialized training. 

It’s tough. They deal with a set and limited income. Yes, and so do many others. But few have to dress, donate, attend on their own dime with no insurance, retirement, or stock options. 

It’s tough. They deal with the eternal soul.

It’s different. This is not some lightweight job we are talking about. If you don’t take it seriously you should not be in this field. If others don’t understand, don’t be surprised when they undervalue this work. 

It’s different, so we must encourage each other, listen to each other, believe the best about each other, seek restitution with each other, and assure each other that we are working together to build up the Kingdom of Heaven.