So over the last 18 months, I’ve had to roll around several different ministry positions. Most recently, I assumed the roll everyone dreams of when they listen to a really cool radio station – I became the drive-home DJ for a Christian radio station.
In the past 23 years of youth ministry – I’ve filled a lot of roles. I’ve been the kids pastor, the worship pastor, the outreach pastor, the minister of discipline (an unfortunate misprint on my business card – but accurate, nonetheless). More recently I’ve been the preaching/teaching pastor. And currently – I’m rocking the radio pastor gig.
I have found elements of each tour that I really loved. (And trust me, I never even thought that possible with the whole preaching thing.) But, yes, even in that I found some joys and treasures. During this time of transition, I’ve found myself (and others) wondering if I should just be happy with any ministry. “Bloom where you’re planted.” “Well at least it’s something ministry-related.” “Maybe it’s time to consider moving on to a new field of ministry.”
I have come to the conclusion that it’s like asking an orange to be content being a carrot. Both are good for you. Both share the same color palette. Both….well, no. That’s about it.
Ask an orange – ‘can’t you just be content being a carrot?’
NO! Carrots are long and skinny – I’m round. Carrots grow in the ground – I swing through the breeze on high-hung branches. Carrots are crispy. Crunchy. I am tender and juicy. You can’t ask me to be a vegetable. We land in the food group on the pyramid – but we’re just not the same.
I am a youth pastor. That’s it. I cannot be a kids pastor – a senior pastor – a ministry director for some non-profit thing. Are they all ministry?? YES! And wonderful ones. But there is nothing more wonderful than knowing your life’s purpose. And I do.
So I am content to navigate this season…and I know I’m hanging out with the carrots and the jicama in this salad. But I’m an orange. I cannot be anything else. And I’m proud of that.
Do you know your purpose? Live it!!
Darren=youth pastor…nuff said!
Wow! Man talk about hiting home! Great article! Going to be sure to share!