Our church recently participated in a combined worship service with three churches in our area—South Jackson. The service and fellowship afterwards honored the Lord and encouraged attenders.

Our guest speaker called us to engage in God’s mission.

While the sermon’s main idea challenged me, I’ve been returning to something else the preacher said.

He mentioned being tired in the work of the Lord, but not being tired of the work. He illustrated this point by sharing how he enjoyed doing laundry.

This idea might sound strange, but I understood what he meant. Laundry is a big part of how I relax. (In the interest of full disclosure, I’m typing the first draft of this post between loads.)

In the pastorate, you are never really finished. There is always something to be done. To be “off,” a pastor must choose to “stop” for a while. The clear beginning, middle, and end of laundry is its appeal. Once clothing is put away, it’s done. That’s a difficult feeling to find in the ministry.

Every preacher needs to find this type of outlet. It might be a hobby, like golf or hunting. I’m always reading a novel. Yard work offers an escape. At least that’s what I hear. I want to escape from my yard work. But, to each his own.

Whatever your method, rest in it. Your family and congregation need a well-rested pastor.

As Hercule Poirot would say, the “little grey cells” need time to rejuvenate.

Preacher, find your outlet. Plug in. Recharge.