Dr. Lawrence Butler

The Bridge Church, Pembroke

PK’s they are called. That’s not a complementary term, and it stands for “preacher’s kids.” I was one of those. PK’s are doted on by some and tattled on by others.

You’re never asked if you want this position, you’re just born into it and, thus, stuck with it. Everybody you are around knows your Dad the preacher. And, they are always willing to share a little news with him about you, good and bad. God didn’t ask our opinion about this situation before we were born.

I don’t think He really cared about our opinions.

Well, anyway, most churches like to think they have an opendoor policy. They encourage visitors to attend whenever they would like. We thought that too, and really meant it. Many visitors came to our church and my father had a very demanding schedule as well as a very successful ministry.

We attended church all the time it seemed to me. When asked by an adult why I went to church, I politely and correctly responded with childhood innocence, “To see my daddy.”

As you can imagine, church also became somewhat of a playground for me. I specifically remember one Sunday evening as we were gathering for a Youth for Christ Bible class, I decided to personally end the open-door policy of our church. What I’m saying is, I was holding the door to the classroom shut so none of my friends could enter. It was a lot of fun until I heard my Preacher Father’s voice on the other side of the door telling me to open-up. Being a smart kid, and not wanting to die in front of my friends, I did as I was told. Believe me, the open- door policy of the church was immediately restored.

Why do you think the church is not open to you? You have the same opportunity to attend as others, but somehow you don’t feel that way. Perhaps you think you won’t be welcomed, maybe even shunned, or you are embarrassed to go. Be aware of this most wonderful verse. “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life” (John 3:16). God loves you and will forgive you, just as His people in church will do. Rise up, go to the house of God, and find His love and forgiveness. No one is holding the door closed – God’s heart door is always open.