You know how I love a good list. Here’s a list of things that pastors must [sometimes] do for which we have received absolutely no training or education:
. serve on boards of directors of nursing homes. [I’m a warm body in a chair and that’s about it the last Friday of every month.]
. read complicated financial reports. [what the heck is an ECBIT?]
. the rules of bulk mailings. [and how to address a disgruntled postman]
. furnace diagnosis. [woe is me.]
. tech support.
. talk to the MN department-of-something people about water samples. [at least he was cute.]
. field call after call after call from solicitors for everything from fast-melting salt ice stuff to the new latest best curriculum to engage your young adults. [I call their bluff.]
. robert’s rules of order. [enough said.]
I’m certain there is more and I’m certain that everyone in every profession has a learning curve. Sometimes I just feel like the realm of ministry is so odd and random and varied that it simply makes me laugh. [I could also make a pretty awesome list of the things that I get to do and consider work. Going to camp? Drinking coffee? Playing board games?] Everyday is a learning experience and it’s not always about ministry. Life is a learning experience. [Can I get an amen?]
there's no place like gnome. 
You can TOTALLY get an AMEN from me!!!!!!
ECBIT? I know EBIT is earnings before interest and taxes (otherwise known as operating income). Then there is EBITA, earnings before interest, taxes and amortization.