I had something happen Sunday that I had never experienced before. October is Pastor Appreciation Month. I pastored churches for 35 years and never had a formal pastor appreciation presentation. Through the years, I've had a few church members give me cards and gifts on the side, but never experienced receiving a corporate expression of love.
We're a small church. On big days, we'll have 20 or more. On average, we'll have 10-12 present in services. This Sunday, we had 12. At the close of the service this past Sunday, we stood in a circle in front of the communion table holding hands while I offered the benediction. At the close of the benediction, a lady went to the place where she had been sitting and retrieved a small gift-wrapped package. She announced that today was Pastor Appreciation Day and the church wanted to present me with a gift. They collectively gave me verbal expressions love. The ladies gave me a hug me and the men shook my hand. I was stunned. It was something I never expected.
The two gifts weren't expensive but they, together with the expressions of love, were worth millions. It was a high moment for me. I received a small book of devotions and a key ring. The messages on the book title and the key ring were literally priceless. I hope some of you pastors out there get a pastor appreciation like what I received this week. It'll put you on a mountaintop in a flash. Thank God for the family of .
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