Only 4 1/2 years

I was checking out the Web Site of a church where I had previously been a pastor and was interested to note that on their history page the only thing recorded about my ministry there was that I 'only served close to 4 1/2 years'. Not a thing was said about the increased congregations, the members I brought in during those years who now serve on session, the survey of their property I spearheaded ... nor the fact that I temporarily reversed a membership decline of many years duration.

At first I felt a little annoyed about such a designation as 'only served close to 4 1/2 years'. Then I remembered that Jesus had a ministry that 'only lasted close to 3 1/2 years'.  He caused a heck of a lot more upset to the religious establishment than I ever could. Whilst I realise that there were some in that particular congregation I served who were glad to see me go, none of them went as far as resorting to crucifixion!

Not for a moment am I comparing my ministry in that congregation to the ministry of Jesus. I dare to believe that it was His inspiration that inspired me, but any comparisons should be ended right there! Fact is that one persons assessment is just that... their particular view. And they are entitled to state it.

I personally treasure a scrapbook of messages and cards received during my time there that witness to the grace of God that was at work in many peoples lives during those 4 1/2 years. I dare to believe that somehow I was part of helping that grace flow along. I am convinced that the only reason I was there was a call of God, and the only reason I left was a call of God.

I don't understand why it is that some of us are called to stay and build, long term, whilst others, like myself, seem to be more like gypsies. There are models for both patterns in Scripture. There are certainly huge advantages to staying, but I think there are also situations where pastors have 'outstayed' their calling. I often wonder what would have happened if I had stayed in 'such and such' a situation but then see how things have turned out in a new situation and thought, 'Well, it's a good job I moved!'

One of the negatives of moving around a lot is that it's hard to call anywhere home. Despite my actions, I do have a longing to put down roots and find a little speck on this planet where I feel I truly belong. Yet maybe that will only happen when I reach a heavenly home. Maybe till then we're all just passing through!

At the end of the day, ministry is hard. What matters is that you are true to your sense of call, not what people make of it. Whenever there is change, people are upset. Transitions are usually only welcomed by the receiving church. The ones you leave suspect anything but a call of God as the reason for your departure.

Given some of the things people face in ministry maybe the miracle is that any of us manage to stay in some situations as long as 4 1/2 years! According to a recent article in Presbyterian Outlook the average tenure for a pastorate position is 5 years. I just missed it by 1/2... so by the law of averages... I am average!  I can live with average.

 I would certainly consider it an honor if my tombstone bore the inscription  "Here lies Adrian. He only served as a pastor for most of his life."