Try, for a moment, to put on the shoes of your Pastor—yes, today, in the year 2020! Here we go:
In the first quarter of the year, your congregation is coming to your place of worship. Families are attending joyfully. People are hugging, shaking hands, and singing and laughing. They are volunteering and serving others with lots of smiles and conversation. Some are absent due to the flu or illness; however, most things are going as scheduled and life in the sanctuary is harmonious.
Mid-March, things begin to drastically change. Businesses and Churches across the country are closing due to COVID-19. You and your staff are faced with the difficult decision of halting in-person services. Now life in the sanctuary is non-existent and not allowed. You are scrambling to get the worship services online so your congregants can stay connected. You are being criticized for the decisions you make. To please some people will mean that you disappoint and even anger others. The offerings are down and the expenses continue. You are faced with the tough decisions regarding salaries for staff and living expenses of your own. You are finally fortunate enough to live in a part of the country that is able to assemble again, but things look very different—mask wearing required, excessive sanitation required, low attendance due to fear, etc. This is not even to mention the racial tension and the presidential election with strong opposing opinions that are part of this tumultuous time. Not only are you trying to manage your own feelings and the needs of your family, but you have the responsibility to shepherd the people God has entrusted in your care. Do you feel overwhelmed?
October is Pastor Appreciation Month. Your Pastor is valuable and worth appreciating every year, but especially in 2020! As a family, keep him or her and their family in your daily prayers. Now is a great time to teach your children to pray for them. Have each member of your family write a note or letter expressing gratitude. Younger children can create pictures to give. If your church is in-person now, tell the Pastor of your appreciation. Pray about specific ways you can bless your Pastor. God has placed them in their role of leadership and authority. Treat them with the honor and respect that He would expect.