Sometimes, being the mom of PKs (Pastor’s Kids) can be comical, such as when our kids nonchalantly speak of having ‘funeral food’ for dinner when their school friends are over. Sometimes it can be heartwarming, such as when individuals (usually retired pastors) tell us that they pray for our kids. Sometimes it can be disheartening, such as when they get told that, as a pastor’s kid, they should or should not do a certain thing.
Sometimes I fear, in the depth of my soul, that their view of God will be jaded by their negative experiences in such a way that they will never feel that they can be good enough for His love, acceptance and forgiveness.
The other day I was reminded that they get it, and by ‘it’ I mean, what really matters.
This past weekend has been heartbreaking for our church, and community. Pastor-hubby-dad has been pre-occupied with death, grieving and really just being shepherd to a heartbroken flock, a heartbroken community. He was a bit of a shell, with little left to bring home.
The kids did not seem to mind, but just took him as he was.
Throughout Monday, as each child came home, they each asked their dad how he was, if his day went okay, if he was tired.
With each ‘child’s’ words of concern and compassion, I realized that they got ‘it’. They showed that they understood the weight that was resting on their dad’s shoulders, and they realized that what he does matters in the lives of others. They also showed respectful understanding of his job, his role, his responsibilities. They showed their dad love and compassion.
It that was not enough to bless my mamma/wife-heart, hubby-dad then shared the most beautiful part of his day, as we sat down to dinner.
As his work day was just beginning, his phone rang. On the other end was a woman in her eighties, calling from another province, thousands of miles away. She said something along the lines of,
“you don’t know me, pastor, but I searched for you, after hearing your name, and the tragic events that have touched your church. I want to let you know that I know these days will be difficult ones for you, and I will be praying for you.”
Looking around the table, I saw that they ‘got it’ again … that the hands and feet of God are His people, His church, near and far.
“Now you are the body of Christ,
and each one of you is a part of it.”
and each one of you is a part of it.”
1 Corinthians 12:27
itsawonderfilledlife 
Carole, thanks for this post…..brought tears this morning. Monday night we prayed for your hubby and your family. Know that we are always here to support you too.
Someone,
The encouragement of hear “we prayed for you” is simply the best. Thanks for your care and concern.
Carole
So beautiful how the Spirit of the Lord works. God always gives encouragement when we need it. When I was a pastor, I remember those hard days but I remember that even when I felt alone, God would give me a glimpse of hope, light, and love. I am glad your kids get it! Wonderful blog. Love it.
Someone,
That “glimpse of hope, light, and love” is our energy source! Thanks for your encouraging words.
Carole
Your children will become the adults who will pray for other PK’s they know in the years to come – trust me, as a PK who’s prayed for yours, I know.
Deb,
What great encouragement! And yes, you are so right about them growing to be sensitive, and praying for other PKs throughout their lives. Thank-you for praying for mine, that touches my heart like nothing else!
Carole