I So Appreciated Being Appreciated!

Yesterday, our church family blessed us (yet again) with a wonderful luncheon for Pastor Appreciation month. I’m honored!! I often stand before our congregation and tell them I’d do what I do for free (of course, I don’t mind that they don’t take me up on that) because of the joy it brings. They really make it easy in many respects to be their Pastor. Let me tell you some ways this is true…

They Pray for Me

I can’t overstate the importance of this. Every leader in Christianity is in the crosshairs of Satan and prayer wins the battle. I and my family need prayer and I’m not ever ashamed to ask for more.

They Provide for Me

We live in a nice and comfortable home and have cars to drive and clothes to wear because Bethel believes in taking care of us. I’m extremely grateful!

They Support Our Family Morally

By that I mean, we receive a ton of positive encouragement. We’re expecting our second child and in many ways we feel that our church family is walking right through the entire experience with us.

They Provide a Place to Fulfill a Calling

I’d be in ministry no matter what, but I’m thankful that Bethel, four years ago, handed me a pulpit and has allowed me complete freedom to present God’s Word and truth, so that I might in turn present them someday before the Father more mature than when I came.

They Work Hard

I watched after lunch yesterday as the whole church family jumped in and cleaned up. People just started collecting trash, wiping tables, vacuuming carpets, and moving furniture around for the next event. This is Bethel. I see this happen all the time and I’m thankful for the spirit of volunteerism that prevails.

I don’t deserve Bethel, but God has graciously brought us together and I’m thankful!!