Disclaimer: I am having a good week. I am content in ministry and think Good Shepherd is in a good place. Please don’t read this post as a sign of impending crisis in ministry.
Having said that, I’ve been thinking about posting on things I can’t do as a pastor for several months now. Why? Because at certain times over the last 20 years I’ve been asked to do every one of them.
So while I believe in Philippians 4:13 — I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me — I also believe “all things” has certain limits. Here are mine . . .
1. Interpret Dreams. Nope. Can’t do it.
2. Fix Spouses. You know this. Many of those who ask me or any pastor to “fix” their mate overlook the fixing that needs to happen in their own lives.
3. Find Employment. On a few occasions, I have actually helped link someone with a job. That feels great. By and large, however, it is a daunting task that fills me with a heavy heart.
4. Tell You God’s Will For Your Life. The best I can do is tell you God’s will and ask/invite/urge you to shape your life around that.
5. Repair Something Broken In Your House. I can’t do that in my house, either.
6. (OK, 6) Remember Something I Get Told Sunday Morning. Usually I have a pretty good memory. Not on that day with those activities.
There are 3 comments
Great post. Now, about that dream I had just last night. JUST KIDDING!
I believe you get asked the other things because we have learned to trust your judgement and guidence and wish you could make all things right!
I think you remember far more on Sunday mornings than you give yourself credit for. Names, for instance. Nothing makes a person feel like they matter than when someone remembers their name. I know you remembered my name BOTH times I was a first time guest 🙂 BTW, can you help with stock picking?
#6 made me laugh. I could never remember anything anyone told me on Sunday mornings. I would have to try to write it down, or ask them to email me later!