From the Pulpit to the Fryer: HEARD

I have had so many experiences and have learned so much since March 31^st that it is difficult to know where to begin. 

Like many pastors and colleagues in ministry, I was privileged to further my education and complete college and seminary many years ago.  God has allowed me to pastor some wonderful churches, but through the years I had to relearn many things over and over again.  Early on in training to do my job at Zaxby’s, the General Manager shared with me three C’s to success: Communication, Cooperation, and Coordination.  Actually, there’s a sermon outline in there somewhere.  I’ll investigate that later…

This article will address the practice of communication.   There’s a practice in the kitchen at Zaxby’s that works really well when everyone is on board.  It is the practice of saying “heard.”  Here’s how it works: There are various stations where one person is assigned for a shift to complete a specific job. 

Example – George’s job for the day is to salt the pickles and he is on the “pickle station” and Susie is preparing the plates to be served to customers. A customer orders two dozen salted pickles.  Susie calls for the pickles and George says “HEARD.”  (Note: Zaxby’s at present does not serve salted pickles and there is no pickle station).

Since George heard what another has asked for and communicated that he heard the request, now he must act to fill the request. He then salts two dozen pickles and places that on the preparation table for Susie to fill the order. 

REQUEST IS MADE (communication)
REQUEST IS HEARD (communication)
REQUEST IS ACKNOWLEDGED (communication)
REQUEST IS ACTED ON (communication fulfilled)

If you are thinking at this point, this sure is silly, or you already know this stuff, you are probably right. However, I do have a point to make in this article.  Many people are crying out and making requests in our churches, our communities, and in our world.  Can we not say “HEARD” and either fill that need or point people to where their need can be met? 

Application: I have relearned how to really listen in the past several months!  HEARD!!

GOD IS GOOD ALL THE TIME!

Charlie W.

Note: I will be cautious in these articles as to not inadvertently give away any trade secrets so I will make up fictitious stations, etc… (It’s not as though I’m entrusted with the secret recipe or anything that affects the national chicken industry – I just have a very strong respect and support the Zaxby’s brand).