To the Minister’s Wife on Sunday

Ladies, I’m no poet, but somehow writing this poem felt like the best way to give you a “hey Girl, I see you!” this week. Keep fighting the good fight, Loves, and remember you aren’t alone!...

To the Minister’s Wife on Sunday

Another Sunday dawns, and you wipe the sleep from your eyes.

I see you, Friend, and I know your prayers are already on the rise.

You know the day ahead will more than likely feel quite long.

That’s why you’ve been petitioning for the Lord to keep your spirit strong.

You glance at your phone on your nightstand – your message inbox is quite  full.

A Bible class teacher has called out sick, and you’re the one they need to pull.

You roll over and laugh when your husband also gets a call...

Turns out the song leader’s on vacation today so he’ll have to pick up that ball.

You rush around the house to help your family make it to the pew,

But lo and behold on Sunday no one can ever seem to find their shoes!

The kids and church bag are packed up, Ziploks of cereal spill in the van,

You’re mustering all the patience and love of Jesus that you can.

You arrive and church doors open with joyful grins and hugs to embrace,

You watch smiling and weary faces both file in to this well-loved space.

You acknowledge this past week may have been tough for others, too.

It’s a reminder you need as you wrangle your kiddos solo in the pew.

Your husband steps up to the mic after the congregation sings,

You try your best to listen and all at once feel a million things.

You’re oh so proud of the man you love, as he opens his Bible to start,

You’re nervous and excited, too, as he begins to share his heart.

Gathered today you notice faces you recognize and ones you don’t.

Some will share their burdens openly, and there are some who can’t or won’t.

But you’ll do your best to catch them all, mentally cataloguing each need.

You know you won’t remember it all, but you pray you’ve planted a seed.

The invitation song is sung—the time of worship is now completed.

Now it’s time to head to the Children’s wing, where your crafting skills are needed.

It’s funny sometimes, as a minister’s wife—each week you may serve at something new.

Being the hands and feet of Jesus sometimes looks like macaroni, glitter, and glue.

From hospital rooms to potlucks, Friend, you diligently navigate it all,

You’re the steady and gentle rock, behind your husband’s answer to God’s call.

You’re “not enough” and you know it, but you know the best part:

The only person who ever was is living now inside your heart.

On the toughest days to appreciate your title and your role, 

I pray the Spirit gives you strength somewhere deep inside your soul

To remember your calling is difficult, but Christ’s example is ever bright.

Please keep pressing on, Dear Friend, to reflect His radiant light.

Melissa Flanagan | Huntsville, AL