Winter 1993

ARTICLE TOOLS

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How come restlessness pursues us even to paradise?

"Okay, gang," Jim enthused, "it's time for the 'Question of the Day.' "

For those of us who worked at denominational headquarters in Nashville, Tennessee, "Question of the Day" was a daily ritual over coffee break or lunch. Questions ranged from sports to theology, current movies to denominational politics. No subject was taboo.

"Name five pastors you know personally who are truly happy in their jobs, who don't want to change churches," said Jim.

Dead silence.

"Okay," said Jim, "name three."

Again, nobody spoke.

"How about one?"

Bob finally came up with a name but added, "He moved about nine months ago, so I guess he doesn't count." We laughed, finished our coffee, and returned to work.

Years ago, singer Paul Simon wrote a song entitled "American Tune." One of the lines goes, "I don't have a friend who feels at ease."

That phrase described our culture in general when it was written, and it still describes a lot of people today, even a lot of ministers.

Why this epidemic of ministerial restlessness? I've noticed it in other ministers, and, though I hate to admit it, I've spotted it in myself.

Before I worked with my denomination, I served three traditional "First Baptist" churches. Each was a strong church in the community, drew a decent crowd on Sunday morning, and sported solid programs. Although each was an excellent environment in which to minister, none seemed particularly exciting to me at the time. After a short stay at each church, I grew restless.

Since local church ministry didn't tame my restlessness, I decided to accept a denominational position. I landed a job as an editor and consultant for the Southern Baptist Convention. At first it was exhilarating. ...

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