“Honor those who are your leaders in the Lord’s work. They work hard among you and give spiritual guidance. Show them respect and wholehearted love because of their work.” I Thessalonians 5:12-13 NLT
I recently googled thirty-one reasons and causes to celebrate in October. October presents an opportunity to celebrate several worthy causes, and some that stand out more than others, such as National Breast Cancer awareness or International Day of Non-Violence. Then there are some less than prominent but, no doubt still important to someone, such as national pizza month. Yet missing from the celebrations named on our morning TV shows is Clergy Appreciation Month. It is easy for us to overlook the work of our pastors, especially as we are so focused on the new realities of everyday existence. I hope each of us will take a moment to reflect on how God has used your pastor to help you or your family or someone close to you make -meaning out of the challenges of life we face at this moment in time. Has your pastor helped cultivate joy and offered you hope when feelings of hopelessness permeate your atmosphere? Pastors are not perfect, but God calls them to a unique service, helping us find our way on the journey of life as they illuminate the light of Christ, pray us through dark valleys, and feast with us during our celebration such as the birth of a new child.
The last 19 months have caused fatigue in us all, the laity and pastors. Yet, clergy have remained faithful to pivot quickly to learn new media skills, write devotional messages to be mailed or posted on websites, visit front porches, and even bear the brunt of real frustrations by sounding boards.
Paul knew well the challenges and struggles that come with the office of pastor. Paul said to honor them, which is to show them respect for the work they do. Most churchgoers do not see the late-night phone calls and texts. They do not know about the all-night hospital visits where they stand next to a family member who needs support. No one stops to think that the same pastor offering support may be hurting. Often overlooked are the hours of counseling given or the countless prayers said on behalf of those in their care. Paul says pastors are worthy of honor for the calling and willing submission to God and service to communities of faith. It begs the question, why would anyone want to enter this vocation? They do it because when God calls clergy to serve, nothing else will satisfy them but willing and loving obedience to the direction of the Chief Shepherd.
Let us intentionally take time to honor the pastor this month!
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