Pastors should be appreciated at all times of the year. However, October gives us a great opportunity to show our leaders how much we respect and value them.
Appreciating your religious leaders comes from the Bible. In 1 Timothy 5:17 Paul states, “The elders who direct the affairs of the church well are worthy of double honor, especially those whose work is preaching and teaching.” 1 Thessalonians 5:12-13 says, “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.”
Being a Pastor is not just about showing up on a Sunday, saying a sermon, and then taking the rest of the week off. It is an around-the-clock job that requires the minister to wear many hats, including counselor, business advisor, custodian, mediator, scholar, writer, and many others. They are there in times of grief and times of joy, to pray with you and celebrate with you, and to do many other jobs behind the scenes.
So, this month, let’s celebrate our church leaders and show them that we appreciate how much they do for us. There are many ways to show them how important they are. You could:
1. Write a letter. This could include specifics about sermons and how they have helped you, work you see him do and how much it’s meant, etc.
2. Have your child draw a picture.
3. Give your Pastor a treat he enjoys (i.e. a pack of Diet Coke, dark chocolate, or anything you think might bring a smile).
4. Make a nice meal or dessert.
Whatever you decide to do, take this month to let your leaders know that they are doing a good job, that you notice their hard work, and encourage them to continue in their calling.
It will mean the world to them.
