Growing up the 'parsonage' or 'pastor's manse' was a place of fond memories and joy. It was on the porch of the church parsonage in Pt.Enterprise, Texas that I first witnessed a young pastor enjoying a relaxed conversation, not from the pulpit, but with deacons talking softly into the summer night. Years later, with a group of teens from church, it was in my own pastor's home that I gathered round a piano at a Sunday evening 'youth fellowship' to sing such choruses as "He's Everything to Me" and "Pass it On" from a 'Sing-spiration' song book. And it was at a visit with my pastor in the study of his home when, as an enthused college freshman, I discussed my feelings and echoed back - amidst his books, quiet ways and his relaxed and loving knowledge - my sense of 'calling' into the gospel ministry.
Tonight, as B and I enjoyed a quiet evening in our own 'manse on Steeplechase,' I noticed her gathering of party knick knacks and setting out of plates, and asked, 'what's the occasion?' She replied, 'the youth and some leaders are coming over Sunday night, and I want everything ready for them when they arrive.' I looked at her fondly and thought of what it is that really makes our house here the 'pastor's manse,' knowing it is so much more than my title and job. I know it is Belinda, too, and her ways of love and care for Christ, for me and others - and all the years of her serving our LORD and His purposes at ParkwayHills from this place we call home. Here, in our front room, we have comforted troubled marriages, consoled local youth, and even performed a few weddings. From our kitchen we have served cookies, coffee and prayer upon prayer. So that I am grateful for this place we call home and others call 'the pastor's house,' knowing it has been simply an everyday reflection of our privilege in Christ and love for being called by Him to serve. Yes, growing up the 'parsonage' or 'pastor's manse' was a place of fond memories and joy - and, thinking of it now, it still is.
So blessings to you and yours from both B and me, from this place called simply... the Pastor's Manse!
Indeed,
Pastor Sam
