It’s not in my job description!

I haven’t looked for a new job for a while now, but the other day I pulled out my resume just for the fun of seeing what i had “qualified” myself to do. I had listed a lot of meaningless information over the pages. Educational details, past jobs, skills, accolades, accomplishment, and references. As i looked it over i laughed out loud because i realized that nothing in that resume really told people who i am, what i believe or what i was committed to.

Now i realize that a resume is supposed to be a brief overview for the purpose of additional followup during the hiring process, but i found it interesting as it pertains to ministry. When you go into ministry, regards of the type, you are not really going into a job. Even if you have a detailed job description, an employment letter, or contract, you are still not going into a job. Ministry is not a job. It is your life. It doesn’t matter if you fill out a time card or are full time, half time, no time, volunteer. Ministry is not your job. Ministry is your life! And even more important… ministry is a privilege.

Lately i’ve had a some discussions with a couple part time worship guys who like to use the phrases “it’s not in my job description” or “i’m part time…remember”. Usually it is because they have been asked to do something that doesn’t fit into their regular routine.

I’ve been a part time pastor, so i understand where they are coming from. There is only so much time and anything above that is outside the scope of the job.I remember times thinking: “I don’t have time to volunteer my time to the church for things they don’t have the money to pay for…”

Unfortunately a lot of church pastors and leaders (particularily worship guys) are part time, work second jobs, or are not paid at all. It is kind of the norm these days. But i have come to realize something. Every person who serves in a church (with out getting paid) either doesn’t need to work or they have a job. Which means anything they do to help in ministry is outside of their normal life. Yet we don’t usually hear about volunteers complaining when they are asked to serve above and beyond the hours they work during the week.

Over the years i have forgotten time after time the wonderful privlege it is to be a vocational ministry leader. Yes there are a lot of headaches, people, staff, schedules and others to deal with, but how many people get the opportunity to lead in a church?  not that many…

Next time you’re asked to do something outside of the norm, just remember how few people get to do what you do… and besides who are you really working for? the church? or the Lord?