A Pastor's Life

My life changed the day that was ordained. I think for the better, because I love what I do and who I get to serve. But, it is a different life that not everyone understands or can even appreciate. Now, this true of any vocation. But I found a list of expectations of pastors that I was not quite prepared for when I first entered the ministry. I found this list here.

Right or wrong, when you’re a pastor, people’s expectations of you change.

• Some believe you are holier than you could humanly achieve. Others are skeptical, secretly hoping you’ll fail.

• Some sincerely hope your family is materially blessed. Others think your family should barely be above the poverty line.

• Many will have very high expectations of your kids. Some will privately (or publicly) gloat when your kids fail.

• Some people will want to be close to you simply because you’re a pastor. Others will be too nervous to be themselves around you.

• Some will extend irrational love toward you and your family. Others will be easily offended (and dislike you) over something you would consider a minor misunderstanding.

• Some will almost worship you (even though you don’t want it). Many of those same people will leave your church before the end of this year.

• The joy of intimate Christian relationships for pastors couldn’t be greater. The pain and loss of broken relationships will haunt you throughout your ministry.

Then in thinking about the stress of vocational ministry as it affects my son and family.

• Your kids will hear you criticized.
• Your kids will watch you hurt.
• Your kids may see you wrongly strike back.
• Your kids might see your hypocrisy up close.
• Your kids might reject the church because you’re always there.
• Your kids may enjoy the extra attention when they are young and despise it when they mature.

So, anyway I love being a pastor, I really love when little kids call me "preacher," and I love all of you. Just things to consider as you deal with your preacher, whoever that may be.

Pastor Phillip