That night, the Conner family gathered at Franklin’s home. With most of his family present, the patriarch stated, “Who does this pastor think he is? He been here for just over forty-eight hours and he’s telling us how to run our church. He doesn’t even know this town and the people in it! I do, and I’m not about to let just anyone use that church. We’ve been functioning just fine before he got here and it’ll be just fine when he’s gone!”
Jean Conner sat silently, as her father-in-law ranted, knowing how his opinions were the only ones that mattered in this family and in this town.
It had taken her a long time to help her husband stand up to his father and to voice his own opinions when they merited it. But it came at great cost and he rarely defied him.
She knew the new pastor was right. She had grown up in a wonderful, friendly church, with open doors that preached the Word of God to all those who would listen, and helped the needy wherever they were found. But she also knew her father-in-law.
She realized He’s not going to accept the will of the congregation while he believes he’s right. But, I wonder to what extent he’d go to get his way?
Franklin Conner was pacing the room, working off steam, but his next words chilled Jean’s heart.
“Years ago, I got rid of one pastor! Seems like it’s time to get rid of another!”
Love Affected