Happy Anniversary …..to me!

Yesterday it occurred to me that I have just passed a milestone. May 25th, that was Monday, marked my 35th anniversary – of my ordination, that is. Yep – for 35 years I have been a ‘white collar worker’, a ‘servant of the Lord’, a ‘packhorse for Jesus’.

Those terms poke a bit of fun but I am sincere in saying this has been a wonderful calling and I am humbled and grateful that I have been able to spend my years in this work. Ministry is a wonderful, terrible life. It is a life-style not an occupation. It is one where the work is never done and the needs are ever great. It is also one where the perks include hugs from children, casseroles at the door in the busy seasons, notes of thanks, moments of spine-tingling worship, being present with families in the intimate and holy moments of birth and death and making a difference in people’s lives.

Over 35 year I have met the most wonderful people and lived in interesting and loving communities. I have worked with terrific colleagues – team mates in the office and in the pulpit, interns and musicians. I have gathered a posse of beautiful friends and collected a treasure trove of memories. Most of all, I have been able to dedicate my life to sharing a story that I consider the most significant story of all creation. That is the story of God’s love. There have been times of doubt and seasons of frustration. There have been moments of anger and tinges of loneliness but through it all there has been the underlying joy of service and I have always, always, come to a place of resting in God’s grace.

I started ministry when I was 25. I knew a lot more then than I do now! The years of experience have shown me that the human condition is one in regular need of assurance and love and that there is nothing more interesting than people!

So Happy Anniversary to me and to all those who mark the passing of the years of service in the church. It is a great way to spend a life.