What would you do?

[Janet842]

I started playing with my church's orchestra three years ago. During that time, the music pastor was led somewhere else, we had an interim for over a year, I lost my 30 year career (which was a day job) and God put me in a sales job where I must work up until dark.

The new pastor came on three weeks ago and changed the orchestra rehearsal time to make it earlier. It now conflicts with my job.

I have a very restricted time in which I can make a living and the new time effectively kills one work day for me. I only have 4 good days a week to work and the rehearsals fall on one of them. I can't afford to lose a work day (as I write this my bank account is minus $400 plus dollars). I also work with a partner now so it's important that I am consistent in going out with him to work.

Playing with the orchestra was a ministry I committed to, but I also believe God put me in this new career. Everything is different now. I will have to either give up a day of work or give up attending the rehearsals (I can still play on Sunday by making the pre-service rehearsal.)

What would you do if you were in my shoes?

Thanks,
Janet

 

[LDWoods]

If you are allowed to play by catching the morning rehearsal, then I don't see a problem. You are primarily ministering \ serving by playing in the service, not practicing. Of course I may be way off base. Maybe you are mentoring and ministering by attending rehearsal?

In my situation, since providing for my family is first priority, I would work at my day job and just have to miss the rehearsals.

 

[Mr. 5020]

This is an easy one. Give up the rehearsal and enjoy the simple things in life... like shelter and food.

 

[Timothew]

I would ask the pastor if it were possible to move the rehearsal time so that it would fit your schedule. If he couldn't do that, I would leave the orchestra. God will find another ministry for you. Mr. 5020 is right.

 

[heron]

I would ask the pastor if it were possible to move the rehearsal time so that it would fit your schedule. If he couldn't do that, I would leave the orchestra. God will find another ministry for you.

I agree, be forthright about your frustration. Since the leader changed the time, there are other people who were inconvenienced too. The church might find the orchestra fall apart simply because people can't attend practices.

But remember that this brings an important balance and enjoyment into your life, and it can change how you feel about everything when you lose it. Consider what it has done for you, and how you might bring that into others' lives.

If the situation won't budge, start up something small yourself -- a kids' orchestra for Christmas, a women's arrangement, a chamber group, a talent show, a monthly composers jam session.

It's the "make lemonade" situation... closing door/opens window. God moves us on so we can raise others up.