Each year during the Thanksgiving Season, I spend some time thinking about preaching and ministry. It is on my mind all the time, but I do some serious reflection during the holiday season. Due to the type of work we are doing now, as opposed to being involved in local work, we spend a lot more time with preachers than ever before. My love and appreciation for preachers have grown exponentially over the past couple of years.
So may we express personally to you, deep gratitude for all you do for the Lord and His people. Thank you for the hours of preparation you put into your sermons each week. Thank you for preaching your heart out to people, even when you wonder if they “get it.” Thank you for being kind and patient with people who are critical, negative, bitter, and sometimes even unkind to you. Thank you for your commitment to preaching the Word even at times when you feel tired, worn down, and when you are hurting.
Thank you for the sympathy you feel and the empathy you show to those who are struggling with illness or the loss of someone dear to them. Thank you for caring deeply about the souls of those who the Lord has entrusted to you. Thank you for feeding them the Word on a regular basis.
Our prayer is that you will know that you are making a difference in the lives and hearts of others, that what you do matters, and that it counts big to God. May you know that you are deeply appreciated by people who sometimes do not express it. As you spend time with family and friends this week, please rest with peace knowing that there are many who are deeply thankful for YOU!
