As for me and my house (a prayer for pastors)

Lord,

This week
we led funerals,
moderated meetings,
triaged inexplicable requests.

(All the time we write in our heads.)

We composed
hard-won liturgy,
heartfelt prayers,
stewardship letters.

(All the time we write in our heads.)

We balanced
office hours,
chores at home,
friends, partners, children.
(All the time we write in our heads.)

We travelled
to original plays!
and highbrow concerts!
Also 4th grade baseball!
(All the time we write in our heads.)

We sat
on the edge of the performance space,
in the creaky balcony of an old college hall,
with our butts chilling on the bleachers.

(All the time we write in our heads.)

We bought
dinner out in the city,
a little black dress,
a new pair of cleats.
(All the time we write in our heads.)

We tried
to provide it all,
with good cheer
and faith the money will go far enough.

(We give thanks for the thank you card lined in cash.)

We considered
the guest bound in outer darkness,
the golden calf cast in the wilderness,
the wandering faithful who serve You.

(All the time we write in our heads.)

As for me and my house,
on this Saturday night,
we will eat pizza,
and ice cream cake,
and dance in the living room
to the laugh music of our children,
and in the morning,
we will serve the Lord.