Dream Job

Imagine yourself in an interview for your dream job. Someone asks you this question:

“What are you passionate about?”

If you are like me, you were already a little nervous (ugh…interviews).  Your heart rate picks up a bit more because your mind just stepped into panic mode. I mean, there are so many places to start. Your honest, immediate response? “Do you have a couple of hours? Can I borrow the biggest white board you’ve got?” But instead, you maintain face by saying the first few things that pop in your mind; your short list. Your long list is more complicated. It’s best delivered little bits at a time.

My short list: human development, the local church, fun at church

Human development psychologists categorize life spans from birth to death. They identify trends (good and bad) found within those stages. A basic understanding of human development is super helpful in parenting and ministry. To say I am a nerd about human development would be an understatement. However, I am not a psychologist. I’m a children’s minister. My passion for human development comes when God interjects his will and presence into those stages and trends. He can transform us from self-centered survivalists to God-centered worshipers. Desiring God over self changes everything in human development. There are no longer good and bad happenings. Every experience becomes a medium God uses to reveal himself to his children. The boundaries set in human development theories are stretched into new dimensions: Birth to Re-birth to Death to Eternity. As a ministry leader, I call it Life-Span Ministry. As a mom, it’s just called life.

Call me a traditionalist…but I am passionate about the local church. I have close (Christian) friends and family that don’t care much for church. Their reasons are legit. I get it. Bad experiences are hard to get over…especially when they become the norm. Going into a new church can be uncomfortable. The thought of walking into a place where people have established, tight relationships can be overwhelming. It is hard, but be brave. Go anyway. If it’s broken, help fix it. If it’s great, give them a high five and join in the fun!

“Fun at Church” is one of my favorite contributions to ministry, and kids have proven to bring the most opportunity for fun. I am passionate about children’s ministry.  I’ve sent great grandfathers through inflatable bouncers with their grandkids. That’s a 75 year span! One of my  most proud moments was watching a grandmother spray whipped cream into a friend’s mouth…straight from the can. I can’t not mention that one dad that’s always willing to dress up like a bearded rock star to add hype to the annual Sunday school competition. What kidmin hasn’t asked their brand new worship pastor to dance at VBS in a full body cow costume (complete with udders)? Children’s ministry brings churches together in a way no other ministry does. It’s called fun. Some ministry leaders are serious about committee structures. I am serious about fun. As you follow this blog, you will find that even the committee meetings can be fun. (I know, I know…that’s pretty far fetched…but give me a chance!)

My long list: ambersugg.com

I wasn’t kidding when I said I would need hours and the biggest white board you’ve got. If you’re up to it, follow me! I’d love your input and company!

And, if you’ve made it this far, what’s on your short list? Maybe you are a mom. Maybe you are a ministry leader. Either way, pick three words/phrases…and post it in the comments below. Spend some time figuring out the “why” behind your list…journal it or share it with a friend. Then, let those passions lead you to action. Plant a garden for your family. Set up an art studio in the corner of your garage. Buy that new lens. Apply for that dream job…