I KNEW IT WOULD HAPPEN
In my last article, I listed some possible names or titles people could call me. There was one I suggested I not be called. Remember? It begins with a d___. No, it’s not dummy. I do get called that but seldom to my face.
The Sunday after the article three persons called me by that name but many more called me “The New Guy” – the heading of the article.
One person called me “Rabbi,” which is an honorable title. It means “Teacher.”
Several have started calling me “Dale,” which is fine. Some have hesitated calling me that, preferring a title such as “Reverend,“ “Brother,” or “Doctor.” That’s okay, but I have never been much of one for titles.
I like the story of when the country music singer Loretta Lynn, the coal miner’s daughter, met President Richard Nixon. She called him “Richard.” Later, several chided her, indicating that it is not proper to call the President by his first name. She shrugged, saying “But they called Jesus ‘Jesus,’ didn’t they?”
I don’t care what you call me so long as you call when the food is on the table.
A GIFT FOR THE NEW PASTOR
One of these days you will call a new pastor. Before he comes he will ask for a church directory. That will help him learn the congregation. Your current directory has been very helpful to me. It takes me four times longer to learn a person’s name if their picture is not in the directory.
The directory you have now is four years old. Many members are not pictured in it. Some who are look a little different today; hair color has changed, weight has been gained or lost.
A new directory is being made. Schedule a time to get your picture made. Put on your church-going best; make a big cheesy smile that says “Welcome, Pastor!”
HE WHO LAFFS LASTS
An irate customer called the newspaper, loudly demanding to know where her Sunday paper was.
“Ma’am,” said the employee, “today is Saturday. The Sunday paper is not delivered until Sunday.”
There was a long pause followed by a ray of understanding “I’ll bet that’s why no one was at church today too.”
MINISTERIAL STAFF COLUMNS
I know you have enjoyed having the ministerial staff write columns for THE MESSENGER. They are great, capable servants of the Lord and EHBC. The more you know them the more you will appreciate them.
REMEMBER THE 3 BS
What are they?
Be P_________
Be F_________
Be P_________
Blessings!