The Christian Ear is a forum for discussing and listening to the voice of today's church. The Lord spoke to churches,“He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.” Rev 2&3
October 05, 2009
Pastor Appreciation
October is Pastor Appreciation month and although cards and monetary gifts are easy to give and always well received, they simply don’t have that long-lasting encouragement factor. I know I contributed to the pastor’s gift-card basket last year, but I hazard to say that neither he nor I remember the sentiments that were written in the card. Much of a pastor’s time is taken up with study of the Word, prayer and preparation for the delivery of the Sunday message, but for the most part the only feedback we give him is what we toss over our shoulder as we go out the door, “Good job…Powerful sermon…That one hit home…” I think our ministers deserve more...and that they actually need more if they are to give us their best. Pastors need to hear specifics about how their study has impacted lives, pierced hearts or strengthened faith.
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Gail;
-----I have always reckoned that a pastor was to be the person in the gathering whose life was most in tune with the Word. God measures faith to His children (Rom 12:3). So, by developing the lives of some with a greater measure of faith He gives to us pastors (Eph 4:11), not men who are as well trained in the doctrines and theological theories of the Word as they are in the godly character and nature of the new life. Doctrine and theology, of course, are important. Scripture does present much to be known about these. But the new life is vital, and Scripture presents much more about the characteristics and attitudes of those who have been made alive.
-----Therefore, the best study of Scripture seems to be made by its application on the streets of life. Since the most of the godly characteristics it presents are relational in nature, the pastors I respect the most are those who are by nature open and godly in their relationships with everyone around them. So I believe the best way to express appreciation and give support to the pastor is to be open and godly with him, continually developing a genuine and Scriptural relationship between you. It is nice to recognize your pastor for a month, but it is nicer to develop an ongoing relationship with him.
Love you all,
Steve Corey
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