Before I served as an associate and student pastor, I grew up as a pastor’s kid (PK) and a missionary kid (MK). I witnessed firsthand the highs and lows of ministry throughout my childhood. My father was my pastor for most of my life, and he is my hero. Pastor, I want to say “thank you” through the eyes of a PK for Pastor Appreciation Month.
- Pastor, thank you for being a father. As I reflect on the memories, the laughs, and the love my father showed me, I realize he led me to be a disciple of Jesus. Discipleship came not just from the pulpit but daily as my dad. He shepherded and instructed me in the ways of the Lord (Deuteronomy 6:4-9). Pastor, even if you do not have children of your own, there are young people who see you as their spiritual leader and consider you a father figure. Thank you for shepherding and leading as a father.
- Pastor, thank you for your integrity. You inspire me because you are the same godly leader at church and at home. There is no difference or change in who you are. Thank you for setting the example of Christ-like integrity and character that has shaped my life.
- Pastor, thank you for showing Christ-like love toward every church member, even the difficult ones. Painful attacks within the church family can be difficult to process for a PK. Your Christ-like forgiveness and love toward stubborn sheep exemplify the gospel. God forgives His people of much, so we should be quick to forgive those who hurt us. Thank you for your enduring love for the sheep, even when they are hard to love.
- Pastor, thank you for not giving up. I knew pastoral ministry was difficult through my eyes as a PK. However, I did not fully understand the weight of it until I entered pastoral ministry myself. The difficult days and dark nights can tempt us to quit and do something else. Thank you for your steadfastness and dependence on God and His strength when ministry is hard.
- Pastor, thank you for your sacrifice. Your people may never know the amount of time, energy, and effort you give and have given as a pastor. They do not see the hours and late nights of sermon preparation after you helped your children with homework, attended their little league baseball game, or had a date night with your wife. They did not see you leaving the dinner table in a flash after a church member was rushed to the hospital. They may not know how often our weekend family plans changed for an unexpected funeral or crisis. Pastor, thank you for your sacrificial love for your family and the church you are shepherding.
Pastor, from a pastor’s son, I am proud of the man of God you are. Continue to fight the good fight, finish the race, and keep the faith (2 Timothy 4:7). If you are a preacher’s kid or consider your current pastor a father figure, call them or text them this week and tell them how much you love and appreciate them.
MDiv Preaching and Pastoral Ministry
The Preaching and Pastoral Ministry track prepares students for pastoral ministry in the local church with a special emphasis on expository preaching.
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