A few days back I shared an article by William Lobdell, the former religion beat writer for the Los Angeles times. It was a powerful article that talked about how being around religious people was hazardous to his faith Many pastors know this well. I do.

So today, I want to avoid things that discourage me about ministry, but rather focus on the things I love about it. So here we go.

SEVEN REASONS I LOVE MINISTRY

1. The ability to set my own schedule. If my kid has a program at school, I can pretty easily flex my schedule. While I have friends who left the ministry and now make a great deal more money than I do, they generally mention how they miss having the ability to flex their time.

2. The privilege of being a part of important life events. From being present when people decide to follow Jesus to being present when a family loses a loved one, it is a honor to get included in so many important events.

3. Having reading and study being part of what I am paid to do. I don’t know if I have ADD, but I get to be a student of theology, psychology, leadership, human relations, administration, societal trends, culture, my community, and more. How many arenas does a person get to look at so many different areas of life? I would go nuts if I were only given permission to study one focused area.

4. Having an expense account to buy books with. Related to number three, not only am I expected to study but my church reinburses me for books I purchase. (Up to a certain amount per year!) How great is that?

5. Doing something that matters. We are a part, vocationally, of God’s redemptive work in the world…what could be more important?

6. Christmas treats! I can’t speak for your church, but at mine the treats fly in starting around December 1st. There is always something delectable to snack on.

7. A weekday off. I get to run my errands when no one else is. Gotta love short lines!