Every so often someone says something to make me realize that what I do for a living is a mystery to many people!
I was on the phone with a new acquaintance to schedule an appointment, and he asked me, “How about this afternoon?”
It was a Saturday and I explained that I work on Saturdays, and he said (I kid you not), “Oh, I thought you worked on Sundays.”
Now before you cut him any slack, it was clear to me from our conversation that he assumed I work only one morning a week.
I was a bit stunned, and for a few moments I was speechless.
I was beginning to like this guy and now I just felt insulted … or hurt … or something. I wasn’t sure how I felt I was so shocked by his comment.
I took a deep breath and calmed myself.
Then I said, “Well, believe it or not, being the pastor of a church involves a lot more than showing up on Sunday morning.”
“Oh?” he replied in an innocent tone.
Now generally I don’t talk about the kinds of responsibilities my work entails because when I do I begin feeling as though I am trying to justify my paycheck. However, in this instance I had little choice.
I said, “There are many things involved in helping a congregation do what it’s supposed to do. There are committee meetings, financial considerations, and building upkeep. I’m involved in teaching classes, planning worship services, preparing relevant sermons, visiting people in their homes, praying with those in the hospital or other care facilities, counseling individuals and couples in crisis, comforting the grieving, and conducting weddings and funerals. There are community outreach efforts to support, social injustices to fight, staff to supervise, volunteers to appreciate, and emergencies to address.”
He said, “Yeah, I guess it makes sense that there would be more to it.”
“YOU GUESS?” I wanted to scream!
Instead I just quietly responded, “Now you know.”
Words (c) 2012 Mark Lloyd Richardson
Photo (c) 2012 Dallis Day Richardson (not that anyone would steal a photo of a Methodist preacher)
dreamprayact 
I was as stunned as you were to hear this, because as your wife, I know how many hours and days are consumed by your job! I’m glad you’re addressing it, as there may be more folks out there who are unaware of the dedication and hard work invested in your life’s calling!
What a good wife to put this comment out there! 🙂
Thanks, sweetheart! You know better than anyone.
I know he didn’t mean any harm but I have a vision of smoke coming out of your ears like Herman from The Munsters! Hang in there and keep up the awesome work! 😉
Ha ha! I remember Herman, and I remember smoke!
Oh gosh, I was SO laughing–though not at you, surely, as you showed monumental grace and patience. I guess folks just don’t know what they don’t know–and it’s good when we don’t smack them silly, but take some time to enlighten them! God bless you abundantly–and I salute you, and all pastors who are BUSY Full-time, doing the work God has called them to. sis Caddo
I remember specifically in my ordination vows promising not to smack anyone silly, or I might have! Thanks for your supportive understanding, Caddo. Mark
Now I’m laughing some more, that your ordination vows included my sentiment!! I think my old pastor would get a laugh out of this–he probably wanted to smack me silly at least once (I was very needy). He pastors in Lincoln, NE now–far away from me–but He’ll still reply to emails!! God bless you and your family–even as you have to “work” the weekend!
Mark–I just emailed your post to Pastor Terry Maassen, Hope Community Church, Lincoln, NE!
I am the ‘old pastor’ friend that Caddo refers to! Thanks for bringing a smile to my face with your real life journey. I’m honest with folks and say I work one day a week and Monday through Saturday is my long weekend. There is no other calling with that kind of benefit. It’s all for the kingdom! If people really knew what was on a pastor’s plate – maybe they would pray more often for their pastor.
So from one ‘old pastor’ to another pastor – this Sunday give your people a whole lot of heaven and just a little bit of hell. Glad to have met you and God’s blessings as you carry on with your ‘lite’ work load.
All I can say is THANK YOU!!! Your time and efforts are much appreciated more than you know!! THANK YOU.. Thank You Pastor Mark❤❤
It is a privilege to be a pastor when there are people like you and your family in the church family, Sandra. Thanks for your comment. Blessings, Pastor Mark
It is hard to imagine you scream Mark! 😀 My father who took on the responsibilities of a small town church after he retired as a school principal works so hard for the little congregation I am constantly humbled at such dedication. I can only imagine such a similar labour of love from you. Loving your sense of humour Pastor Mark (I noticed the copyright note on the photo too!) 😀 Sharon
It is more blessed to laugh than to cry (although crying can do a world of good under certain circumstances)! So I must laugh at myself when I find myself in the position of explaining what I do. I’m glad you got a laugh out of it too. Peace, Mark
As a college professor, I completely relate to your story and your frustration!!! Soooooo many opportunities to educate folks on what (and how much) we really do. Blessings, Angela
Thanks, Angela, you’re right – there’s always room for more education. Keep on keeping on! Mark
Ministers are right up there in busyness with doctors. Thanks for all you do!!!
Thanks for your comment. I appreciate you stopping by. Mark
This is a marvelous post. Our Church has just been in a search for a new Priest. And I could tell that couple of years the burdens on Priests has become larger and larger and there seems to be much more documentation and just plain clerical stuff that has to be done and that interferes with the Priest’s ability to be with the flock. And most Priests get into it because they love to be with their flock. So I am hoping that our new Priest will find a congregation that is atuned to her needs since there are so many things going on in our Church even we can’t keep up with them all. So I wish you GOD speed… GOD Bless & Keep You Under His Wings Close to His Heart.
You are definitely onto something. I will keep your church in my thoughts as you welcome a new priest. God bless you all. Peace, Mark
Please forgive the typos…. I’m going to fast as usual. Trying to drop in on everyone. You are all such great people I hate to miss one.
It is always a blessing to have you drop by. Thanks.
I really enjoy this post for so many reasons. But especially for your inviting us into your world, and your week. And your perfectly natural ‘human’ response to a rather clued-out individual. Way to go in remaining calm! We can have our feelings of course, but thank you for showing how we do not necessarily want to act on those feelings. Thanks so much for sharing. And the photo of you is wonderful! Now if we could get your sermons online, I’d be set! 🙂 Blessings, Gina