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A famous Missourian known as Mark Twain once quipped, “I can live for two months on a good complement.” While Mark Twain wasn’t exactly known for being an upstanding theologian, his statement hits the nail on the head. All of us would agree that it feels good to be complemented, even more so to be genuinely thanked and appreciated for making a positive impact on someone’s life.
In fact, I would even take it a step further. Not only does it feel good to be complemented/appreciated, but it can also make all the difference in the world. Indeed, it may make the difference between a person persevering and quitting. No one ever gets beyond needing encouragement.
Along those lines, the month of October is set aside nationally as “Pastor and Staff Appreciation Month.” Let me ask you a question. When is the last time you paid your pastor and/or church staff member a good complement? When is the last time you did something tangible to show them appreciation? When is the last time you said, “Thank you?”
I want to encourage you to find a way to show appreciation to your pastor and church staff this month. It doesn’t have to be big or expensive. For instance, you could buy each of your pastor/staff and spouses a ticket to the GCBA Minister/Spouse Christmas Dinner for just $10 each. Or you could reserve each couple a spot at GCBA’s Minister/Spouse Retreat at Branson on Valentine’s Weekend for just $100. (Register for these events at gbaptist.org.)
Whatever you do for your pastor and staff, remember Jesus’ words in Luke 10:7, “the laborer is worthy of his wages.” Your pastor and staff labor faithfully for your church. May your church reward them in kind. God blesses the church that blesses its leaders. One simple act of kindness may keep them going for another “two months.”
Blessings!
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