Pastor Matthew Winters

I have worked many places, but the diversity of my work hasn’t been vast. I will list it in categories.

1. Church. My roles in churches have been many: pastor, worship leader, discipleship leader, senior adult leader, and youth and children’s leader. I have literally covered from the cradle to the grave in church life. Not every role was a natural fit, but I tried.
2. Hospice. For seven years, I was a hospice chaplain, bereavement coordinator, and volunteer coordinator. Grief counseling was the most difficult part of these roles, especially in more complex cases. Chaplaincy was much like making home visits to church members, and volunteer coordination was much like recruiting and managing volunteers in church life. This season of my life was precious, but I knew it was time to move on at the end of that season.
3. Work program manager. This was probably the biggest mismatch ever. The concept of the program was great, but my gifts were not so well suited for this position. Since I knew little outside the church world, I was learning sometimes at the same rate as the employees. It shaped me in many ways and tougher skin. I did this for almost two years, but I was well worn by the end of that time.
4. File clerk. This position was designed for college students and was easy work, plus the pay was $4 over minimum wage. I did this off and on during college. One of my coworkers was a strong believer in Christ, so work was more like fun and spiritual food for the soul.
5. Custodian. Custodial work is something I have done off and on for years as main income and side work. I enjoy cleaning and independent work, so this was nice. I always joked and said how it was ideal because the toilet brush never argued with me.
6. Food delivery. I have done this both for a restaurant chain and a few of the popular third party companies. I prefer the gig economy companies because I have more control of what I can accept. When you work for a chain, you deliver what is assigned to you and deal with management personality clashes a little more. This isn’t avoidable in any situation, but companies like Uber Eats allow you a little more autonomy.
7. Piano and vocal instructor. Because I don’t have a music degree, I take beginner students only. I also only take students whose objectives I can meet within my experience. This has not been something I have done a lot, but I have enjoyed it for shorter seasons.

Well, that is my job history. It is not as vast as some, but it has shaped me into who I am today. Some can be enjoyable while others are a means to earn an income. At the end of the day, God has given us a commandment – work as if you were doing it for the Lord. When that grouchy customer comes through your line again, imagine how Jesus would treat them and do it for Him. When a coworker or supervisor lies about you and betrays you, treat them the way Jesus would. Our work ethic really is a part of our Christian witness. Let’s be the best we can be for the glory of God!