Stock Phrases 2

Being one of two pastors here in small town Little River, there's some casual conversation that only the preacher gets, like this remark: "Keeping everyone straightened out?"

I once thought this was a compliment. You know, the preacher is recognized as the moral compass of the community. But now, I think it smacks of legalism. The goal of life isn't moral living, it's grace filled living that results in moral living.

So now, instead of reinforcing the idea that my job is to get people to "be good" and follow the rules, I want to underscore the point that my calling as a pastor is point people not to rules, but a person.

So here's I'm going to reply: "Nope, just pointing them to Jesus."