Monday, October 23, 2006

Did I Get Anything Done?

Today could go down as the most unproductive day I've ever experienced.

Knowing I had an impossible schedule I was forced to cut some things. Today, as much as it pained me, I opted to miss a hospital call I really wanted to attend and I skipped lunch as well. And one would think, with the free time those decisions generated, that I would be setting pretty. Think again.

I'm certain I was on the phone for close to three hours today with various people whom I dearly love. Combine that with the "drop in" visits to discuss this and that and before I knew it, it was nearing 5pm and time to head to Kevin's for dinner. I had an hour to grab a bite to eat and spend a little time with Em before I was back out the door for a 6:30pm elder's meeting.

I try not to stress on days like today but it's really hard not to. God knows what I have to get done and He's yet to let me down. I kept reminding myself today that ministry is about people and not simply writing messages. This is a balance that has been so hard to master. Sometimes I just wish there was an 8th day! But I'm certain that wouldn't help. It's learning to work with what you've got, knowing when to say yes and when to say no.

I'm certain tomorrow will be more productive!

6 comments:

Anonymous said...

You may not feel like you got anything done but your simple Hi this morning was what I needed.

Anonymous said...

Most people are well-meaning, but there are the occasional few who are wanting nothing but attention. I think just being honest with them is the best way to go.

Or, as I often do, just screen your calls :).

Anonymous said...

Unfortunately your office at church is not the best situation. You are the first office a person can stop by and visit. It's one thing if someone really needs to talk either they are troubled or there is a ministry concern. However, if they are just stopping by to shoot the bull, well they are not being all that considerate of your time. It must be a common problem, as many ministers have a private area to go to to pray, and do the serious research and writing of their sermons. Maybe you should designate some time away from the office at church and turn off the cell phone to concentrate. Yes God is good and you and He make a great team, but He would prefer you not work under such stress. He told me so!!!

Anonymous said...

Unfortunately your office at church is not the best situation. You are the first office a person can stop by and visit. It's one thing if someone really needs to talk either they are troubled or there is a ministry concern. However, if they are just stopping by to shoot the bull, well they are not being all that considerate of your time. It must be a common problem, as many ministers have a private area to go to to pray, and do the serious research and writing of their sermons. Maybe you should designate some time away from the office at church and turn off the cell phone to concentrate. Yes God is good and you and He make a great team, but He would prefer you not work under such stress. He told me so!!!

Anonymous said...

Hoping your day was more productive...days like this aren't easy on a planner are they? A wise person once said "Dream, plan, & set goals but do so in pencil" - :)

Jen said...

The ministry is so tasking in many areas.
Keep up the great work you're doing for the Kingdom!