I read several “tweets” this morning from pastors that I follow on Twitter. There seemed to be a common thread running through their comments. In addition to Biblical quotes there was the acknowledgment of the difficulty of Mondays. As I read their comments it occurred to me that next month is Pastor Appreciation Month and it is clear many pastors need some appreciation and encouragement. So, based on their “Monday Morning” thoughts I decided to write on their behalf today.
Dear Pastor,
I know it is Monday and you are tired. I have prayed for you already today. Another week means new sermon preparation and busy schedules. As you begin a new week you are still trying to process last week and in particular yesterday (Sunday). What did you miss? What went right? What went wrong?
I am praying for you as you process why some of your people had to be so disrespectful to you. It is tough when someone decides they want to be rude or negative toward you or the church. It is tough when someone carries a ”chip on their shoulder” because they think you haven’t spent enough time catering to them and their problems. It is tough when you are compared to some other preacher that someone wishes you were more like. It is tough when there is no response to the sermon you spent 20 hours writing and preparing. It is tough when church members decide to be absent from services, especially when some of them are leaders in the church.
But…
You made a difference in my life. I know I didn’t say it, and maybe I should have, but I needed every message you preached yesterday. I know God used you! I can’t speak for anyone, but I am blessed you are my pastor. Just like me, I know you are raising a family, dealing with the economy and trying to plan ahead. I know the time with your family is often infringed upon by ministry demands – thank you for the sacrifice. I know you can’t fix all my problems, so forgive me for thinking you can. I realize that everyone wants you to focus on them and their problems all at the same time and that is an unrealistic expectation. I know you are not perfect (I’m not either) and that’s ok! I don’t want some other pastor, I am thankful God sent you! I am sure Mondays are hard. So let me say simply – Thank you! I don’t say it enough, but I am thankful for you. Oh and one more thing…I am not the only who feels this way!
Signed,
A Friend
