What Makes My Kids Cry Today

Some stories just have to be told out loud, and this is one of them.

This past July, my six-year-old and I went to one of his classmate’s birthday parties. It was a typical summer scene — kids running wild with water guns, parents standing around in little circles, and me trying to balance conversation with keeping an eye on my child.

At one point, I found myself standing in a group of three moms. Our pastor wasn’t there; he was away on a church trip in Minnesota. But his wife was standing right there with us. We were talking casually, and without even realizing it, I called him by his first name. Just Marcus.

Not Pastor Marcus. Just Marcus.

The funny thing is — no one reacted. The conversation went on. His wife didn’t say a word. And I didn’t even notice. Not until later that night, when I was cooking supper, did the thought replay in my head and I stopped mid-stir: Wait… did I actually call him Marcus? In front of his wife?

That’s when the delayed cringe set in.

Why I’m Sharing This

On today’s episode of What Makes My Kid Cry Today, I tell the whole story — what it reminded me about titles, respect, and relationship. Because here’s the truth: honor matters, but so does remembering that pastors are people too.

It’s awkward, it’s funny, and it’s also a reminder of grace. Because our slips don’t define us — grace does.

🎧 You can listen to the full episode here: [https://www.spreaker.com/episode/when-i-called-the-pastor-by-his-first-name-in-front-of-his-wife–67579057].

Looking Ahead

This companion post is just a taste of the story. On October 12, I’ll be sharing a full written blog post where I go deeper into what this moment taught me about words, honor, and humility. So if you like the episode today, be sure to come back for that fuller version!