Naaman’s servants went to him and said, “My father, if the prophet had told you to do some great thing, would you not have done it? How much more, then, when he tells you, ‘Wash and be cleansed’!” – 2 Kings 5:13

This morning, especially in the context of enjoying another positive experience in worship yesterday, I feel compelled to write about ministry and how God calls people to serve the church.

The congregation where we attend, Howard Memorial Presbyterian here in Tarboro, is currently engaged in the search process for a new pastor/head of staff.

I have written about this before (for example – Impatient Trust, Feb 3, 2026) and there is no doubt in my heart and mind that this church and this community represent a uniquely positive opportunity for a career-defining ministry. This congregation is strong and welcoming, and the town of Tarboro is the kind of place it is easy to fall in love with.

That said – and I will sing the praises of our new home any chance I have – this post is focused on the other side of the equation. I have questions for individual pastors, for pastors’ families, and our denomination.

First: How do you understand the idea of “a call”? One of my favorite writers, theologian Frederick Buechner, wrote that “Vocation is the place where our deep gladness meets the world’s deep need.” I love this because it comes from a recognition that God has already set things into motion by gifting us in unique ways.

For us, this played out as Rebekah found such joy in helping congregations rediscover their passion for Jesus. This is – I believe – the deep need for the church. Not ministers weighing such options as career path, quality of life, community amenities, local schools, climate etc. etc., but preachers open to God matching their deep gladness with a congregation that needs their passion for Jesus.

Preachers open to God matching their deep gladness with a congregation that needs their passion for Jesus.

I used the term “Played out for us.” This is because I am convinced that God does not call a preacher in isolation so much as God calls a family.

Preachers, do you and your spouse ask God to direct your paths when you pray together? Do you talk about ministry and dream together about what God has in store for you as a family? – both short term and in the future? Do you ask God to use you without reservation? Do you say, humbly, “Here am I, send me?”

Over the years I have had several conversations with ministers from several states who appear to have preempted the sense of adventure that – for us – helped to define the life of ministry.

Things such as, “We’re comfortable in this city, I don’t see us ever leaving.” Or, “A move would be challenging for our children.” Or, “This is where my wife grew up, my congregation has to be within 25 miles.” Or, “My spouse has a good job, so commuting distance is important,” and “I/we won’t go anywhere without ‘A-rated’ schools.”

More than once I have followed up with, “But what if God calls you?”

It’s a good question. Also, “And what if God calls you to do something hard?” What then?

But what if God calls you?
What then?