10 Reasons

Now these are the gifts Christ gave to the church: the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, and the pastors and teachers. Their responsibility is to equip God’s people to do his work and build up the church, the body of Christ. – Ephesians 4:11-12 October is Pastor Appreciation Month. Pastors do so much every week for their churches, but this is the month that we can spend some extra time seeking to show them our appreciation for all that they do. Here are 10 reasons to appreciate them: Your pastor is placed in leadership over your church by the Lord, and this is a very heavy responsibility. Your pastor is tasked with leading his congregation and the church staff, as well as the direction of the church and the ministry that it does. Talk about a lot to manage! Your pastor prepares messages every week that shepherd your heart and mind well. Your pastor doesn’t have a 9-5. He answers calls and emails at all times, day or night; visits hospitals; and does a million other things outside of the “normal office hours.” Your pastor’s family doesn’t receive a salary from the church, but they are also deeply entrenched in the ministry of your church. Your pastor carries burdens that he might hear in counseling sessions or important meetings that you will never know. Knowing what so many people are dealing with can be unbelievably overwhelming. Your pastor has very few people that he can go to with the challenges that plague his family that are probably very similar to the challenges you and your family face: finances, busy schedules, difficult relationships, and more. Your pastor often sacrifices holidays with extended family so that he might lead at services. He sacrifices his weekends where he might take a quick trip or relax like you do with your family because he is preparing for services or at the church. Your pastor is the resident question answerer when it comes to theology and doctrine. He has to carefully explain the most nuanced ideas and help others understand. What a blessing that we have someone to go to when we have questions! Your pastor grieves when you fail to honor Jesus with your life and rejoices in your obedience. He also cheers you on in the faith by both being there physically but also in prayer.* Pastoral work is difficult and sacrificial, and it is absolutely a calling that the Lord extends on someone’s life. It also is your pastor’s joy to serve you and see you grow in Christ. Spend some time praying for your pastor today and determine to show your appreciation in some way. Write him a card, grab him a gift, or buy him a cup of coffee. Just remind him that you see the work he does and appreciate it. Maranatha! * Lifeway Christian Resources