Ted and Robyn Randall have only been in our life a few months, but they will never know how much their friendship has already meant to us. Thankfully we have several friends like them, and Cheryl has even more of these friends than I do, but last night we spent some time at Richard’s Café in White’s Creek with the Randall’s.
The reason their friendship means so much is that when we are with them, the only business at hand is having fun. As a pastor, when I’m with someone, usually there is a perceived expectation that I’m to be “pastoral”. I’m supposed to be the one to pray. It is expected that I can provide answers, comfort, wisdom, hope, suggestions, insight, and condolence. I’m supposed to be the rational one. Some, not so much in my church thankfully, think a pastor should always be serious and certainly never silly. (Sorry, that’s not always me!) I realize the expectations and responsibilities that come with the calling, and I’m not at all complaining about it, but sometimes I just like to have fun, with no expectations on my part.
Ted is an Army Chaplain and pastor. They have been in ministry for years. They understand the stress of always being “at work”. They are both fun people. Hanging out with them is just that, hanging out. There is no pressure to be anyone other than a friend. Through that time with them they invest in me and help me unwind from the stress of ministry.
I value my time with friends like this.
Well, it’s the first time i’ve opened the door and caught a member of the clergy on the blog. Hope I didn’t embarrass you too much. Take care, happy logging. Shane.
Praise God for amazing Pastors and Chaplins such as both of you-and the ones that have affected my life upfront to come to Christ. Both a Chaplin in the Army was the beginning of shaking me to understand-during huge trial with my now ex husband-who is still in the Army-trial of his cheating that led to beating me, 2 months after my first brain surgery. That chaplin began a great seed planting…I didn’t know who to talk to-with no one there-I was on the pay phone on base in tears-and God put him in my path-he saw me crying-and stopped for me. AMAZING. My pastor today, is the one I have learned so much about Jesus Christ from..how much He forgives always-and wipes the slate clean when you accept Him. His amazing plans for you-even when going thru struggles….I have learned to praise Him-He has suffered more than I ever will for ME…how can I complain as all He does is help me-for His Glory-and His Kingdom I get to be part of!?? AMEN…you amaze me on twitter…I am just baffled by so many-and is perfect timing for inspiration before my third brain surgery this year. I am thrilled with pastor like you-like mine-who are more down to earth-we all can relate so much more. You aren’t the answer-Jesus is-you have a lot of insight…and that is intriguing…His calling!
Blessing to you!
Heather Siebens ( http://www.twitter.com/hetty4christ )