Clergy Appreciation Month: Making a difference
Do you ever wonder if you’re really making a difference? Over 40 years ago, my husband and I said yes to God’s call to plant a church, and many times throughout those years we questioned whether our sacrifice was noticed or appreciated. When the “thank-yous” were few and far between, it was easy to feel discouraged. Now, in our work as directors of Kerith Ministry Leaders Retreats in Ontario, we sit with pastors and leaders and hear their stories. We see the weight that many are carrying and the toll it can take. In difficult seasons it is especially tempting to want to give up. If you’re feeling that way in your season of ministry, you’re not alone.
As we think about Clergy Appreciation Month, we want to take this opportunity to remind you of these words that Paul used to encourage some of the church leaders he was involved with:
“Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labour is not in vain, in the Lord.” (1 Corinthians 15:58, NKJV)
I also appreciate how The Message puts it: “Throw yourself into the work of the Master, confident that nothing you do for him is a waste of time or effort.”
What a great encouragement, that nothing is wasted when we work as unto the Lord! He sees all of our effort.
We recently had the opportunity to reconnect with two brothers who were young boys at the church we led over 35 years ago. These men are now married, raising families, and serving God in the church and in missions. We were deeply encouraged as they shared their memories with us. We were amazed as they recounted so many details from their time at our church: special events, water baptism, corporate worship times, and truths they learned in children’s ministry.
We were blessed as they expressed their thanks for the part that we played in their lives, even though it was many years ago. We know that it’s rare to reconnect after so much time has passed and to hear those words of gratitude, so we will treasure that conversation!
We trust that for every story we do hear there are many more that could be told. It is a good reminder to all of us to stay true to our calling, because it is worth it and never a waste of time.
While we love and serve people in our congregations, may we also be reminded that what we do, we do for an audience of one. A mentor once told us, “It is nice to get a pat on the back, but you just cannot afford to need it.” No matter how many expressions of appreciation you receive, it is good to be reminded that it is about continuing to do our work for God.
I want to say thank you and express appreciation to all of you who serve faithfully with compassion and integrity in the work you do for the Kingdom.
You are making a difference every day! Be encouraged that the team at Focus on the Family Canada is praying regularly for you.
“We give thanks to God always for you all, making mention of you in our prayers, remembering without ceasing your work of faith, labour of love, and patience of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ in the sight of our God and Father.” (1 Thessalonians 1:2-3)
Beth Fleming and her husband, Steve, are the program directors at our Ontario Kerith Retreats location. For more information about our retreats, visit KerithRetreats.ca.