Pastor Search # 8 - "Not Perfect But Good Find"

Today as I put the wagon back together I found one of the bolt heads had some paint on it. This bolt is essential in order for the wagon to move forward and be effective. I had two choices. I could get a new bolt. I thought about that but the trouble of driving the fifteen minutes each way to the hardware store was too much for me today. The other choice was to take a piece of sandpaper and try to get rid of the paint. I found that this worked very well and soon all of the bolts looked sparkling new and the wagon is ready for many trips with the grandchildren.

Sometimes our search for a pastor brings the same types of issues. We find someone who is qualified, willing and ready to go. But when questioned and analyzed there is just something that isn't right. In my case I always want someone who is bald. Other people want certain schools, specific track records, etc.

So the question is "What do we do with those candidates who are not completely perfect for the position"? We have two choices. We can move on to someone else and try to find just the right person. Or we can realize that we will never find the perfect match and look for areas of compromise. There are some things that should never be compromised. Maybe another blog post will be a venue to discuss those. You all know the important ones. Whether a person has a full head of hair or went to a certain school should never stand in the way of calling a pastor.

At http://www.ministrytogether.com we use a 54 point matching system to match churches with pastors. Even though we ask some very in-depth questions we realize that very few times there will be a 100% match. We have categorized the matches into three groups: 85% or better matches are excellent matches. They may be bald but otherwise meet all the matching criteria. 50% to 84% matches have some good matching points but may need some sandpaper in certain areas (compromise). Below 50% match indicates you should look at someone else.

There were a few times in my ministry of 45 years where I needed a little sandpaper. I am so thankful that those churches took a chance on me. We had wonderful ministries, people came to know the Lord better, I grew as a pastor and the Kingdom received glory from it. So, if you are looking for a pastor don't be afraid to do a little sanding. You just might find a great pastor....Later...........Preacherman