Show your pastor appreciation for that beautiful characteristic. Pastors are known for going above and beyond in ways that we see and so many more that we don’t. This is another call to concentrate on living outside of ourselves to point others to God by letting our lights shine wherever we can. This means that no matter what- how we feel or even how others treat us – we simply cannot get tired of doing good. Paul encourages us in Galatians 6:8-10 to live to please the Spirit and not to satisfy our own sinful natures. The Bible says in Proverbs 16:24 that “ Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body.” Commit to kindness not only for pastor appreciation day but also in the days, weeks, and months to follow. Let’s not wait for a “reason” to be kind- it should just bubble up and out of us toward others. Crises can unite people and help us focus on what matters. Most recently, kindness was on full display during the pandemic. The older we get, the more we understand the sayings, “It’s the thought that counts.” And “It is better to give than to receive.” Random acts of kindness have been culturally popular from time to time. Looking in the mirror and recognizing our own nature and need for our Savior and how His kindness leads us to repentance is how we develop and cultivate patience for others. Isn’t it interesting that when we consider patience, the beginning of Ephesians 4:2 points out that we are to first “ be completely humble and gentle” before we bear with one another in love? There’s a sermon in here, I know it. It begins with our own heart’s decision in Hebrews 12:14 and then translates to others in our church, community and places of business. In the New Testament, peace is also used several ways, including as a greeting, in absence of war or chaos, as in a right relationship with God and people, and peace as individuals. In fact, the concept of peace in the Old Testament primarily refers to wholeness, total health, and total welfare. Please do not mistake peace with a passive connotation. Pastoral appreciation month is a joyous time where congregants brainstorm and shower gifts as tokens of gratitude. Being intentional is key and sets the tone for your day and for those around you as you press into the power of Romans 15:13. This is about what we do in spite of what’s going on in our personal lives and how we are feeling. Ideas for pastor appreciation start with and are born from love and respect for the calling of your Pastor. Show your love to your Pastor by showing up, filling in the gaps, and being willing to serve. Jesus said in John 13:35 that philia (love) would be an identifier of his followers. The concept of brotherly love that unites believers is unique to Christianity. In honor of this, we’ve sorted through and organized the ultimate guide to pastor appreciation day to help you know how to best honor them. October 9th will soon be upon us, are you ready? A brief history shows that while Pastors have been especially acknowledged by congregants since the time of the Apostle Paul, it wasn’t until thirty years ago, in 1992, that National Clergy Appreciation Month (also known as Pastor Appreciation Month) and Pastor Appreciation Day was officially woven into the fabric of our society.
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