What Is It Like to Be a Priest Today?

If you are among those who rarely think about this question, this text is for you. Sometimes, it is sitting in a folding chair and listening to children sing Christmas carols. Sometimes, it is standing by the bedside of someone taking their last breath in this world. Sometimes, it is being in awe as you hold the Body and Blood of Christ during the service. Sometimes, it is feeling completely unworthy to do so.

Sometimes, it is standing at the pulpit, wondering if anyone is listening. Sometimes, it is standing at the pulpit, very aware that people are listening. Sometimes, it is being strong in a room full of grieving people. Sometimes, it is resting your head on the steering wheel, trying to collect yourself after such moments. Sometimes, it is the joy of baptism. Sometimes, it is the sorrow of a funeral. Sometimes, it is enjoying an excellent meal at a host’s home. Sometimes, it is trying to remember at the end of the day whether you ate anything at all. Sometimes, it is the joy of helping a lost son return home.

Sometimes, it is the sorrow of watching a defiant prodigal son walk away. Sometimes, it is hours of prayer that keep you afloat. Sometimes, it is the pain of scandal that drags you down. Sometimes, it is rising in the morning, knowing you are stepping onto a battlefield. Sometimes, it is moments of incredible grace. Sometimes, it is walking through the valley of the shadow of death. Sometimes, it is being respected. Sometimes, it is being despised. Sometimes, it is speaking words of comfort. Sometimes, it is speaking hard truths, calling people to repentance.

Sometimes, it is being praised for your service. Sometimes, it is being called all sorts of names for speaking the truth. If one lives it rightly, it is always about serving in the person of Jesus Christ. It is difficult, but it is worth it. It is a constant call to witness.

It is being a target for attacks because you go against the culture. It is a daily, voluntary dying to oneself. 

It is making God's grace available to all. It is not for the fainthearted or the weak in spirit. It is not for the worldly or the ambitious. It is not a job or a career. It is a way of life. I would never choose otherwise.