Why My Wife Is A Better Youth Pastor Than Me
People typically have set ideas on what makes a pastor a pastor. A pastor should look a certain way, have the right title, sound a certain way, have the correct education. My wife does not have the title of “youth pastor.” She’s an early childhood teacher, greatly-talented photographer, and world-traveler but she also is one of the best pastors I know.
I have been involved in youth ministry for almost 10 years now, leading worship, teaching, leading small groups. Because I’m on church staff, I have been referred to as both a “priest” and a “reverend.” Titles that assume I am somehow “holier than thou” or more important than others in our church. My wife is a perfect example of someone who simply believes what Jesus said and longs to live for a greater purpose in life. Over and over again she pours herself out for the benefit of others. She has shown that a pastor truly making a difference is less about title and status and more about love and effort. Here are a few examples I’ve learned from her on how to truly help others.
- giving time: a full-time wife and two part-time jobs demand tons of time. she still finds slices of time to meet with her girls, write them on facebook, answer texts
- getting coffee with girls several times a week
- listening first. showing she cares instead of slathering advice and correction
- prayer
- actually caring. I’ve seen her shed plenty of tears when talking about the girls she leads.
Leading worship is easy compared to what my wife and other volunteers at our church do. I’m in awe of how they give so much passion and energy to the investment of others.
What makes a pastor a pastor? Who do you know in your life that regardless of their job-title is a full-time pastor?
