Thank You Pastor!

I am thankful today for the many pastor friends that serves in a pastoral role. They have the heart of the Apostle Paul that stated, "For though I am free from all, I have made myself a servant to all, that I might win more of them" (I Corinthians 9:19 ESV).

Historically many have honored their pastor on the second Sunday of October each year. As far back as the first century the Apostle Paul encourages honoring the spiritual leader in your life (I Thessalonians 5:12,13).

 “Now we ask you, brothers and sisters, to acknowledge those who work hard among you, who care for you in the Lord and who admonish you. Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work. Live in peace with each other” (I Thessalonians 5:12-13 NIV).

There is a network of ministers that I am privilege to serve with through relationships; both within and outside of the organization I serve.

On this Pastor Appreciation Sunday, I make this commitment to you:

1. To love and respect you and your family

2. To value your calling

3. To pray for you regularly

4. To be an encourager

5. To offer ways to strengthen your ministry

6. What matters to you matters to me

I am also grateful to the spiritual leaders God has placed in my life and to you I say "thank you for being my pastor!"

 “And I will give you pastors according to mine heart, which shall feed you with knowledge and understanding” Jeremiah 3:15 KJV.

Please take time today, or this month to give special honor to the man or woman that serves you in this spiritual role. A card in the mail, a gift card to his\her favorite place to shop or have a meal, or some other gift is great to give your pastor. Take time in a church service this month to publicly acknowledge the pastor and his family. Don't forget the spouse, for they also play a vital role in this ministry.

I have cards that the children have made in Children's Church for my wife and I over the years for Pastor Appreciation. I have notes of appreciation that have been written by adults from congregations that we have served. I look back occasionally and find great joy in reading these "words of appreciation". Carissa and I have memories of this day and we are very grateful for many that said "thank you for serving."

Please honor your pastor and his family this month.

Happy Pastor (Clergy) Appreciation Sunday!