For some reason, people want to put pastors on a pedestal. It puts you in a position where you have a choice. Either pretend to be perfect and hide your faults, or be yourself and accept the consequences. The consequences of being yourself, your broken imperfect self are many. Some may stop attending your church. Some may be hateful to you. Some will accuse you of being unchristian. If you let people see your warts, some will reject you.
It is an odd thing to feel pressured to be perfect, when no one is. Pastors put their pants on one leg at a time. They don't always think about Jesus. They are just like us. Normal people. Please allow your pastor to be a normal person. They will relish the acceptance that you bring.
I for one, will never be able to accept the pressure to be perfect. I grew up on it with my mother and I can't live up to perfection. I think it was W.C, Fields who said, "be yourself, everyone else is already taken."
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
3 comments:
You always claimed to be normal I think Your honest vulnerable brought a loving sensitive touch to our church. miss u but love these posts
If we were all perfect we wouldn't need God as much in our lives. Our imperfections are opportunities for spiritual growth. And thus they are a blessing, not a bane.
People who "keep track" on preachers' imperfections most often seek a chance to divert attention and not have to deal with their own imperfections.
Such is life this side of heaven.
What, you're not perfect?!!! I'm not perfect?! Whoa, the earth trembles!!!!! As for you, Jeff, maybe it is just those imperfections that made you reach soooo many people thru your sermons??!!!! Hummmmm, just sayin'. We love you, warts & all!!!!
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