Yesterday’s study in God’s Word said that Nehemiah returned and discovered that the Levites had not been given what was due them. And then I read about Barnabas which means “Son of Encouragement”. I started to pray and my list of thanks to God went on and on. I asked God’s blessings on countless people who in just the past few months have been my source of strength and support. Some I haven’t shared my appreciation with and a few I have.
There are people helping start our church that volunteer countless hours and are deeply devoted to this new ministry, for which I could not do without. And then there are even the little things that happen. One lady brings bars every week and her husband, even though he doesn’t come to church, makes sure that she has the chocolate chips for those bars. Why, because he really does care.
The list is endless of those who make a difference in our lives, but the question remains, do we appreciate them and do we show them that appreciation? I watched a motivational video this morning about an eighty something, retired teacher who got a letter of appreciation from a student, obviously years after their school year together. The story indicated it was the only thanks she ever had all of her years teaching, and that she would read his letter every day until she died.
What a difference one word of thanks or appreciation it would make in a persons life. This is Pastor Appreciation month. I went back to a church I served 12 years ago and got a shock. I lady that was always totally opposite of me on most subjects and on the opposite end of the theological scale from me, said the most amazing thing to me. She said, “I am so glad that you continue to be a minister.” That was so meaningful to me. Hallmark couldn’t have said anything better.
I’m not searching for someone to send me a card this month because I’m a pastor, but I just want people to stop and see what all kinds of people do to impact their lives and to not ignore it, but simply say, “thanks”.
For the lady who makes bars for our church and her husband who gets the chocolate chips around – Thank you! For the people who have dedicated Saturday mornings to going out with door hangers around the neighborhood – Thank you! For those who set up and tear down week after week the things to run a church in a school setting – Thank you! For the guy who takes the pastor out for breakfast and a walk (just to keep me healthy) – Thank you! For those who don’t go to our church, but pray for us and send us a check in the mail – Thank you!
For anyone, anywhere who does the work of God’s Kingdom – THANK YOU!
