What Pastors Do

Most people see their Pastor on Sunday – standing at the pulpit, greeting folks as they come and go (at least some Pastors do that), welcoming guests or those who make public decisions, baptizing, and such like. Some Pastors (believe it or not) make hospital visits, and stop by long term care centers and assisted living facilities to see older or infirm members of the Church, and a few still visit in the homes of members as the opportunity arises.

Because I spend a significant amount of time at the Church office I see our Pastor frequently and I have discovered something many folks might have missed. It’s the “open door” policy that is part of his personal style. While I recognize that he has some things to do, and he may or may not be present at times during the day, one of his real joys is people dropping by, sometimes on other business, or sometimes to see him particularly, but always taking time to talk a little (or a lot) before they leave the building.

I think most people have the idea that “Pastors” spend their time on sermons, prayer, administration, personal study, problems and solutions, and planning. Certainly all of these are important, vital really, and take a part of every day. But for some, and our Pastor is one of them, this whole ministry thing is about the people who are the Church. Knowing that any one of them might stop by for a visit, a chat, a brief discussion, or seek help with a needed answer to a difficult situation, is a source of great joy and pleasure.

Appointment are good (especially if one needs an hour), but those “drop by” visits are opportunities for people who llove each other to be encouraged, supported, cared for, refreshed, and genuinely lloved.

Next time you’re close – give it a try. That is, of course, if your Pastor’s door is “open.”