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It Really is a Wonderful Life


It's hard being a pastor. If someone came to me with problems like mine, I'd feel sorry for him. My diary can't hold all the people who need to see me. My sermons don't seem to be appreciated, my hair's going gray, and I get home so late the dog eyes me suspiciously. It's easy to feel down.

One of my recent "poor little me" daydreams was spoiled by the thought there might be some positives to ministry. So I wrote them down. Now I can't forget them, and I'm forced to admit my lot as a pastor isn't all bad. I'm in danger of enjoying the job.

You can probably work out your own list, but here is my collection.

  1. Speaking for Jesus

    If I were a politician, I might be handling the nation's economy or international relations. If I were a lawyer, I'd be arguing my client's case in court or advising her about a will. If I dealt in real estate, I'd convince one person to sell his property and another to buy it.

    During hard times, I've wished I had one of those occupations. But none offers what I have.

    I may drive an old car and wonder how I'll ever afford to replace it. I may live in the city when my heart is more in the country. I may never hear my kids boast that their dad is high up in a large corporation. But I get to talk about Jesus, and there's nothing or no one I'd rather talk about. Week in, week out, I'm doing work that matters for eternity.

From Issue:Winter 1996: Expectations
March
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