When the kids were five and two, we began a traveling singing ministry. Our congregation didn’t meet on Sunday nights, so we were free then, as well as weeknights. We sang in churches, clubs, seniors’ groups, whoever would have us. I think the kids were the big drawing card, but people also seemed to like our music, most of it written by Kevin.
The day after a concert for a seniors’ club, the chairman called to tell us how much everyone enjoyed it.
“Oh, thank you!” I said. “I’ve had a lousy morning; it makes my day to hear a compliment.”
“Now, I can’t believe you would ever have a bad day!” he answered.
Oh, puleeeeze!
I wanted to shout, “You dummy! People in ministry have horrible, awful, very bad days, too! Maybe more than ‘normal’ people! We are constant targets for the devil’s traps and schemes.”
But, I didn’t. I just made fluffy little preacher’s wife comment #103 and politely thanked him again for calling.
I wonder why people think we are immune to grumpiness, misunderstandings, and bad attitudes? Just because our calling is to teach, preach, sing or write the gospel does not make us impervious to demonic grenades. We are all in a battle, but ministers and their families are on the front lines. Satan tries harder to take us down, because we are in positions to influence huge numbers believers. Non-believers watch us closely, too.
I’m not feeling sorry for myself. I like being in ministry. Most days. I just want people to be real, and allow me to be real, too.
--Jen
