The Preacher's Lament

My sister called me yesterday. Her minister had put something in their church newsletter that she thought I'd appreciate. It was something called "The Preacher's Lament." I laughed and then I listened. Sometimes we need to lighten up, we church-y folk. So here I share it with you. Have a laugh on me, but then look honestly at yourself and your church and see if there might need to be a change.

THE PREACHER'S LAMENT
Adapted from "The Public Employee's Lament"
by James H. Dearmore, www.gospelweb.net
Original Author Unknown

(Just a joke, folks, but quite a lot of truth in it!)

If I express myself on a subject, I'm trying to run things.
If I'm silent, I'm dumb or have lost interest.
If I'm often at my office (preparing messages), why don't I get out and learn what's going on.
If I'm out when they call, why am I not tending to business, or studying for a message.
If I'm not at home at night, I'm out having a good time.
If I'm home, I'm neglecting important outside contacts and activities.
If I don't agree with persons, I'm bullheaded.
If I do agree, I don't have any ideas of my own.
If I don't do what I'm requested, I'm a very poor pastor or minister.
If I do agree, well, that's what I'm paid for.
If I give someone a short answer, I'm "too big for my britches."
If I attempt to explain the pros and cons of an issue, I'm a know-it-all.
If I'm well dressed, I think I'm a big shot.
If I'm not, I'm a poor representative of my office.
If I'm on the job a short time, I'm inexperienced.
If I've been there a long time, It's time for a change."

--- Adapted by Webmaster from "The Public Employee's Lament."

"Hast thou not known? hast thou not heard, that the everlasting God, The Lord, the Creator of the ends of the earth, fainteth not, neither is weary? There is no searching of his understanding." --- Isaiah 40:28.

Give your preacher a hug for me this week!  This is Pastor Appreciation Month...