Last night I had one of those events in ministry that falls into the ten percent category. As a pastor those events generally are invisible because many times they are at odd hours and are confidential. They only show up on a session report as something like "hospital visit:1" Why I call them the ten percent is because about ninety percent of what I do seems easy, sometimes, to me, too easy. Yet occasionally something comes alone, the one event in ten that really uses every last drop of my training, and pushes the limits of both talent and faith. Yet these are the events that also make ministry worthwhile. Sure preaching and worship is enjoyable, working with youth almost makes me feel guilty for how much fun it is, and who else gets the freedom to study God's Word, read great writers, and enjoy times of fellowship. But these challenging times, they are the ones that make me remember why I took this career in the first place and didn't just go for a nine to five with (hopefully) a dental plan.
Likewise, you too may see life in certain seasons as a daily grind and an exercise in endurance. Even, from time to time you walk with God may become routine, even if "his mercies are new every morning." Yet there are those ten percent events where God uses you that remind you truly of the privilege of your calling, and God's Amazing grace that carries you through.
When you are deep in the ninety percent...remember... that "ten" is just around the corner.
Be Blessed. Be ready. Find Joy.
I'm going to ditch office hours now and take a nap. Leave a message...and my cell phone's on if it's really important.
In Christ and on the Shepherd's Path,
Mark
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Rev Mark R. Simonds
Pastor, Oakdale UP Church
"Declaring Teaching and Living God's Word of Grace"
President, West Allegheny Ministerial Association
"Worshiping and Serving One Triune God Together"
