Conversations

A Conversation between the Pastor and the Preacher

              The Preacher, with a big smile, said "I love getting the congregation fired up! Seeing those sisters cut a step lets me know that I am bringing the word just right.  I am firing them up!"

               The Pastor smiled and said, “I hear you. Yet, I rejoice when the Lord moves in a person's life and I see the change in their walk, their talk, and their spirit. Then I know that God has made a difference in them."

               The Preacher said, "Well That's OK, but there is nothing like seeing the men jump to their feet and yell "Preach", now that's what I'm talking about."

             The Pastor said "Yes, that feels good but it feels even better when those same men not only hear the words but are transformed by the message! Hallelujah! Praise God! Now that's does my spirit good."  

            The Preacher was about to speak when the Pastor continued: "Not only that, but his change brings about a change in his household, his wife smiles more and his children are happier.  The church is blessed by his convicted and changed heart.  That is when I know that I have allowed "me" to sit down so that "He" could use me.  That blesses my soul."

            By Now, the Preacher is feeling a little envious and says, "Yes, I can imagine that it does, but see I don't stay around for all that.  I just speak the Word and move on.  I don't have to listen to all their problems, counsel their wives, or instruct their children.  I leave all that for you Pastors.  I am about reaching as many congregations as possible.  I Preach, collect my Pay and Go!"

             The Preacher went on to say, "My name is known from one side of this country to the other.  I get so many invitations to speak; I have to turn some down.  I am a famous Preacher. Thousands know my name, maybe even millions. How many know who you are?"

             The Pastor laughed heartily and said “It does not matter who knows my name, but it does matter how many know the name of Jesus."  "I have seen him touch so many lives and then those lives touch other lives, until there is no end to how many are blessed just because one heard His word and gave their lives to Christ."

             The Pastor then stood up and reached down to shake the Preacher's hand saying, "Whenever you get a chance, stop by the little church that I pastor and hear what "thus says the Lord"".

             The Preacher watched the Pastor walk away as a tear rolled down his face.  The Preacher whispered, "I just heard Him, son. I just heard Him."  The Preacher looked towards heaven and said "Jesus, forgive me.  I was blind but now I see clearly.  It's not about me but you Jesus!  Forgive me!"

            The Pastor, as he walked away, began to pray “Jesus, thank you for using me to teach your people, to reach out to the lost, and to shepherd your flock.  Lord bless the Preacher to be who you would have him to be. Amen"

                                                                                                     Copyright SJVines, 7_12