If asked, my answer is yes. I can think of no greater calling or vocation than to be a disciple of Jesus tasked with the job of making disciples. Even so, it is not to be undertaken lightly, and anyone considering the vocation should read Joe Thorn’s post: “So, you’re thinking of being a pastor?“.
(UPDATE: Joe has a follow-up post.)
Great post by Joe. It definitely has to be a calling. Because if you are into it for the money, well there are a lot better paying gigs. If you are into it for the approval and praise, that comes and it goes, sheep bite. If you are into it for the accomplishment, you will be frustrated because ministry is always in progress, it is never finished.
But if you are into it because you are called. Well God’s calling is something hard to shake and impossible to ignore.
Bill, you’re exactly right. The first time I contemplated training for ministry, I spoke to a young (40-ish) but wise pastor at a men’s retreat. He gave me two pieces of advice that stick with me to this day. The first, and only sort of related, was to read “dead guys.” Essentially, read from those who have stood the test of time, from the early Fathers to today.
The second, directly related to ministry, was similar to Joe: If there’s anything else you’d rather do than be a pastor, do it. Don’t be a pastor unless there is nothing else you can imagine yourself doing.
After 10 years, I still have the burden, and it’s growing. It’s terrifying, but I can’t imagine not ministering to God’s people.
Thanks for your comments.