Filling Their Pitchers
A brief perusal of any social media site today reveals that society has no problem sharing pride of accomplishments. Facebook alone is flooded with brag posts and joyful announcements. A benefit of such platforms is that it can allow us to rejoice with those who rejoice. It is a common human need for our accomplishments to be acknowledged. In this way, sharing achievements can result in receiving needed encouragement.
One group I believe could use some bragging on are those working in the trenches of ministry. Ministers regularly encourage others to encourage one another. Sometimes, however, those preaching a “look at God” message in a “look at me” world may suffer from a lack of encouragement themselves. How can they fill their own pitchers after pouring out into the lives of others?
Those who have accepted the challenge to point others heavenward may feel it is especially inappropriate to draw attention to themselves regarding their work in ministry. The apostle Paul himself sounds somewhat frustrated having to brag about himself and his own ministry when the church failed to do so in 2 Cor. 12:1: “I have made a fool of myself, but you drove me to it. I ought to have been commended by you.” Failing to recognize ministers’ good work diminishes the work of the minister. It is better for others to bring attention to this fact than for ministers to have to remind the flock of their value as Paul did. Ministers do deserve our appreciation. Our expression of thanks is one way they can be replenished so they can persevere.
COVID-19 has certainly added challenges, demands, and stresses to people in all situations, jobs, and home environments, not just in ministry. For some, the rise in responsibilities, different practices, and changing perspectives has amped up anxiety and pressure. Without taking away from the reality of the hard work being done in households and businesses everywhere, I want to take a moment to encourage you to lift up those working in ministry during these challenging times.
Who gets bragged on in your congregation? Pay attention and notice where values lie based upon who is publicly praised and prayed for in the assembly. If those in ministry are not regularly included in that list, commit to do better about recognizing the value of these people and the work they do on your behalf.
After nearly half a century of living in a household with family members involved in ministry, and having insight into the experience of many others, I can tell you that ministers are not suffering from excesses of appreciation on their behalf. Therefore, when those moments arrive, they stand out.
Last year my family was greatly encouraged by a special treat when an elder and his family took us out to eat to say thank you for our ministry. This is a precious memory for us due to the sincerity and love shown. That experience, along with each written or verbal statement of appreciation shared over the years, is a treasure.
Everyone needs encouragement. Sometimes encouragement is needed most and received least during the hardest times. Ministers have been, and are continually, working amidst uncertain and quickly changing circumstances. Most have likely adopted the sentiment of Luke 17:10 of having only done what should have been done. If so, that is all the more reason to adopt a posture of gratitude for their perseverance these past months, and in the months to come.
One day, God will show appreciation for those faithfully ministering by stating, “Well done, good and faithful servant” (Matt. 25:23, ESV). However, God also uses people to help people and may actually want us to do some of the encouraging ahead of time. Right now those in ministry would certainly not suffer from receiving uplifting words.
October is typically known in the Christian world as Minister/Pastor/Clergy Appreciation Month. This is a convenient time (but by no means the only appropriate time) to be more prayerful, purposeful, and even public, in expressing gratitude to those who actively serve to minister to the people of God. A positive comment in person, by text, written, or announced to the congregation, can all be ways by which we can help support those who have committed to do the work of our Lord.
