Serving Bread

In a recent interview with “Leadership Journal,” Eugene Peterson was asked about the role of pastors, especially in “slowing down and listening.” The article focused on Peterson’s exhortations to pastors to be more reflective and contemplative. In response to one of the questions, Peterson’s response struck me as very insightful and significant to leadership. He said,

Who else is going to do it if not pastors? No one else has the opportunity and the calling we have. I mean, we are the only identifiable group in society commissioned to pray, reflect on Scripture, and listen.

—Eugene Peterson, Leadership Journal, Winter 2009

Peterson values the role of a pastor in society and he asks a convicting question, “If not pastors, then who?” There are various perceptions that society (and even pastors) has of pastors. Being in ministry, I have heard many interpretations of why I’m in ministry and what my role is. A friend once explained to me that I’m overqualified for ministry (that I’m under-selling my ambitions). Another wondered why I don’t leave my charity work for my “left-over” time. And some people have asked when I would be getting a “real job.”

Having been in full-time ministry for nearly 11 years, I am no longer offended (and rarely hurt) by people’s perceptions of my role and calling. In this quote from Peterson, I am inspired to understand my unique authority and calling, to challenge and empower the people around me to consider and embrace the purposes of God.