October is the month that we generally recognize those who are called to be our Pastors. We show our appreciation in a variety of ways. I have pastored several congregations over the years and I have received all kinds of gifts. From pesos to pies, the fine folks of these various churches and chapels have expressed their appreciation for my ministry – even when they didn’t appreciate my ministry!
I once read that in ministry 20% of the people will never like you no matter what you do. Another 20% will always like you no matter what you do, and 60% make up the middle – and those are the people you are supposed to focus on in ministry. A wise pastor and mentor of mine told me long ago that I shouldn’t merely minister to those who think I’m a hero, and I shouldn’t focus all my time on those who really dislike me – but I should focus on those in between, along with all those on the extremes.
Now to be honest, I always wasn’t successful in doing that and maybe that is why the Apostle Paul exhorts us to do the following…
“I thank my God in all my remembrance of you, always in every prayer of mine for you all making my prayer with joy, because of your partnership in the Gospel from the first day until now.” (Phil 1:3-4)
Paul, in the first two verses of this chapter tells us he is writing to; “….to all the saints in Christ Jesus who are at Philippi…” He was writing not just to the “Overseers and Deacons” but to the entire congregation. And what does he say he feels? He feels gratitude and appreciation for their “partnership.” And more than that he calls us to put our feelings into action by praying and expressing our love and appreciation in tangible ways.
So, maybe in addition to a “Pastor Appreciation Month,” we need a “Congregation Appreciation Month”. After all, without a congregation, there would be no need for a Pastor.
Grace and Peace,
Pastor Frank
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