Monday, April 27, 2009

Working in Ministry is INSANE

I am sitting here, staring at my "desk" (actually, i can't see the top of it...it's pages upon pages of things to get done and put away). I find myself thinking about how insane ministry can be: both in a good way and a bad way (mostly good). Here's a collection of what's bouncing around in my brain:

  • As a staff, we try to decide what ministries and resources will best serve the church. The people who make up the church give money to make that happen. If they don't like something, they might stop giving. Either we're serving them well, or they're faithful and obedient (maybe both?), cause that isn't happening.
  • Every single person in a church is different. There is no true demographic. Our demographic is "human." 
  • How do I communicate to all of these people without leaving anyone behind?
  • I'm not a Pastor or anything, but I think my work touches a lot of people.
  • I am longing for clarity and direction in our planning, values and organization (it's coming...I'm really excited).
  • A church isn't a simple organization. But it can be organized.
  • Why don't some people like churches?
  • I think there are a handful of high-profile "Christians" who have messed up on our behalf. Sucks.
  • Is there a chance that people with preconceived notions about church and Christians could come to Grace and see that it's different? That would be cool...maybe a meetup at Grace through Twitter. Come on ErieBlogs, you know you want to.
  • I love talking to my parents about church and Jesus and what it all means. I feel like I have a new perspective on the whole thing (from communications to what happens on Sunday mornings).
  • I don't want to be an island. I want to be part of a team. 
  • What does Erie need most? Can we provide it?
  • I want to do my best, not only because God requires it, but because there are over 1,000 people counting on me not to screw it all up.

4 comments:

Anonymous said...

I've been mentoring a guy and as a result thinking about your 5th and 6th points.

Dad said...

How do you sleep at night?The 1000 people will still love you even if you do screw up.I'd bet against you screwing up though.

the Jennings secede from the South said...

I really think that you are doing an awesome job! Keep waiting on the Lord and know that you are loooooved!

amy grace said...

awesome thoughts.

when derek preached on the question that lead to "how do i choose a church," i was hoping he would say, "and as far as choosing a church goes, you should choose Grace. isn't it obvious?" cause i thought it would have been really funny.