October is Pastor Appreciation month in many places of the world. Many do not give it a second thought. Some would say, “Of course we appreciate our Pastor.” I personally think there should not be a special month or time to show gratitude, but that if a church truly wanted to be a value to one another and to the Pastor, they should show him that he is appreciated in many ways at all times. The following are some constructive thoughts on the subject by a loving pastor’s wife. Hear her compassionate heart:
“Pastor appreciation! That’s a subject that many times is completely forgotten. After all, he is an employee. It’s his job to be there. If we didn’t like him we would replace him.
What of the sleepless nights, digestive issues caused by concerns involving church members, giving up days off, early mornings and late nights. These are not part of the job, but they are part of his life; a part that has no compensation and of which the average church member is unaware.
Our pastors deserve to be appreciated. There are many ways you can show appreciation. And not all of them will involve money. For example:
Be on time! He will feel loved and appreciated if you get there on time.
Stay awake! He has studied not only all week, but his entire career to bring this message from God to you.
Pay attention! When you allow things to distract you, the message becomes inconsequential.
Give him your time! Don’t rush out the door as soon as the service is over. Discuss the message with one another. And don’t “talk shop”. Show him he is appreciated by talking about things other than church and ministry…unless he brings it up.
And, a gift of money or something you picked out just for him or a special gift card to a place you know he enjoys is always appreciated.
Your pastor is a regular guy called by God to do an irregular job. He deserves to be appreciated.”
This Pastor loves being loved and knowing he and his wife are prayed for by the church folk. And lastly, to the church at large, practice being appreciative to the Pastors and one another. God bless! Pray On!
