I have found myself complaining far too often lately, so I am pausing to notice the bright spots in ministry.
It is the greatest privilege to engage in ministry with others, and to be ministered to by others. Here are some of my most recent bright spots:
How are you doing? As a congregation, we lost a great servant of Jesus Christ this past year. We were all grieving together, but of course, as the pastor I was counseling many. Imagine my surprise at receiving one small text from a member of my congregation that asked four simple words: “How are you doing?” Even though, by the grace of God, I was managing well, I cannot tell you how cared for I felt in that moment when I read that text. I just assumed when I opened it, it would include another “to do,” but instead this person ministered to me in the powerful method of grief sharing, reminding me what a blessing it is to have another person care about you even when they too are grieving.
I love Jesus! Children are great at spreading joy, and at the church I serve, there is no exception. I have watched the number of children grow this past year, and more children in worship and echoing through the halls and sanctuary of our church is surely a bright spot. But, let me share a few specifics. We have an adorable 1-year-old who truly sings along with the hymns each week. We have a precious 4-year-old who not only randomly shouts, “I love Jesus!” — but along with her brother, leaps out of her pew every week before the service begins to hand out bulletins (best ushers ever!). And, when I made a disparaging comment about my artwork during children’s time, I was encouraged by a 4-year-old who let me know, “I think it looks pretty good!” A few more bright spots include a middle-schooler who wrote a beautiful prayer (all on her own!) for our interfaith Thanksgiving service this year, and wonderful adults who remind all of us how fun it is to be part of an intergenerational family of faith.
Making it happen for Jesus. Our snowplow service was sketchy this winter, and we have a volunteer who single-handedly went above and beyond (with her ice pick and snow shovel) to make sure our sidewalks are clear and our parking lot gets cleared despite the barriers. We don’t have screens or TVs in our sanctuary, but all I have to do is mention that I have a video or an image to show on Sunday morning and a faithful volunteer shows up to make it happen. What a bright spot it is to not only have faith in Jesus, but to have faith in our elders, deacons and volunteers to make it happen whatever the situation or obstacle. The “can do” attitude of the church I serve is refreshing and impressive. It inspires me and challenges me to be a better spiritual leader.
All are welcome. We Presbyterians let just about everybody in. It is one of the characteristics that I love about our denomination. Sure, we can be controversial at times for our belief that Jesus loves every type of sinner, but we are also consistent about keeping those doors open to those who really need the love and grace of Jesus Christ. As a pastor, it is a relief to not have to be a gatekeeper, but instead, to be about welcome, forgiveness and mercy. I love the unapologetic way in which our denomination invites. I know we are not always perfect, but I am encouraged by the faithful witness to a Lord and Savior who was not afraid to welcome the unworthy.
Connectionalism. I also love the connectional nature of our denomination. I didn’t fully appreciate this in my first call as I had built-in colleague connections with two other pastors. But, now that I am a solo pastor, I cherish the many pastor friends I have around the country. It is invaluable to know that they are just one call away if I can’t figure out how to talk to children about death, if I have a question about moderating an annual meeting or creating an annual report and about the nuances of being a part-time pastor. The Facebook groups are also bright spots where we share the fun times and the challenging times of ministering. I am so thankful to be able to swap stories and learn from great Presbyterian pastors, and I love how willing other pastors are to share their ministry “secrets” and to spend the time to answer questions and pray for one another.
JULIE RAFFETY serves as the pastor at First Presbyterian Church in Franklin, New Jersey. Julie is a violinist, aspiring writer, snowboarder, runner, identical twin and crazy about popcorn.
