Preacher on the Run…

They say you should try walking in someone else’s shoes. This is especially the case when it comes to compassion and sympathy. There are so many people that I have never walked in their shoes, so to speak. Some of these people I have never had a conversation with, but others are much closer. Some of the closest people, in whose shoes I have never walked, are my children. Yet I want to understand where they are coming from so that I can love them well. But that is the catch…they are each something I’ve never been…a pastor’s kid.

That’s right, I’m a pastor. Which by default means my kids are pastor’s kids. That’s kind of how it works. But that is where I differ greatly from them. I grew up the son of an electrical engineer and customer service representative. My parents took me to church, but it was neither my mother’s or my father’s vocation. So in that regard, I don’t grasp exactly what it is like being my son or my daughter. The child of a minister.

Anytime I can learn more about what it is like being the son or daughter of Kenny Kirby, I want to learn. Most often I gain insight through listening to my children’s hearts. Asking questions, observing their attitude, and trying to enjoy what they enjoy. But every so often I read someone else’s experience that is closer to my kids than my own, and I am grateful. This is the case with Samuel D. Jones’ article “5 Things I Learned as a Pastor’s Kid“. I know how difficult I think my role and life are, but I want to appreciate and attempt to understand how my role may make my kids’ lives difficult or enjoyable.

I feel like I have taken a few steps in the shoes of my children. It was not easy, but it was helpful. If you are a PK (pastor’s kid) I’d love to listen and hear about your experience. I’d appreciate hearing what your mom and dad did right, where you think they could have done better, and how your situation affected your relationship with Jesus, for the good or bad.

As always, I’d love to hear from any of my readers, so drop me a comment below, and don’t forget to be with the Lord’s people on the Lord’s day.

Until Next Time…

_{Photo by Samantha Sophia on Unsplash}