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Relish the Responsibility: Guest post by Tricia Lovejoy (pt. 2)

        As believers, we are called to serve God and others.   But, as a Pastor’s wife, I also have the distinct honor of getting a front row seat for all the action!  I'm not going to squander the influence and responsibility my role innately has.  No way. I have chosen to relish the responsibility.  I have chosen to leverage my influence for God's purposes.  I understand that I live in a fishbowl, and people are watching me. Might as well give them something good to watch, right? ;)  So, I discipline myself to stretch my faith and skills so that I have something of value to offer those who are watching.  Paul’s words are a great motivator for me: “Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.” Phil. 4:9
    What about you, Pastor’s wife?  How can God use the partnership you share with your husband?  My suggestion?  Get in there and get your hands dirty!  Whether you are best behind the scenes or out in front, love God and lead well, my friends!  Break the mold! Relish the responsibility!

Relish the Responsibility: Guest post by Tricia Lovejoy (pt. 1)

        I'm not the stereotypical pastor’s wife - if there is one anymore.  I don’t play the piano, I’m rather outspoken, and I’ve been known to laugh at inappropriate things.  I also have strong opinions....about a lot of subjects. Just ask my husband. On second thought, don't ask him. No need to stir that pot.  Suffice it to say, I don't fit the mold. But just like Mountain Lake’s tag line, “We'll change the way you think about church,” I had to change what I thought about the role of the traditional Pastor’s wife.  I am not, nor do I want to be, the quiet wife who sits idly by while her husband completes his "job" of being a pastor.  You see, 15 yrs ago God called Shawn and me to invest our lives in His mission. Did you catch that?  He called US as a TEAM. I don't bear the title of pastor on Mountain Lake Church letterhead, but I am one nonetheless. I partner with Shawn on his weekly messages, I am highly invested in the prep/planning of MLC activities, I know the needs of our people, I am driven to see people know God, I celebrate and encourage our team, and I bear the burden with Shawn of how difficult it can be to sit in the Lead Seat.

    God has chosen to bless this partnership I share with Shawn, and we have seen God do astounding things. But, here's the clincher: our ministry would be severely hindered without each other's support. As a pastor and wife, we make each other better. When Shawn is overwhelmed, God gives me perspective to encourage him. When I doubt my abilities, God gives Shawn words to strengthen my spirit.  When God speaks to one of us, He always confirms it in the other.  God put us together for marriage AND ministry, and life rocks! Pastors' wives: whatever you do, relish the responsibility God has given you to lead in the church and follow Jesus with your spouse! It's a special calling and privilege!

Stay tuned for Part Two of this post tomorrow...