Do we truly appreciate?

I had the wonderful privilege of attending an "Appreciation Party" last night. I confess, alot of times I look at things that I "need to go to" as a chore. Last night was so different. I truly appreciated and loved the people they were honoring. It was a couple that I have known for almost 14 years. They have been serving in ministry most of their lives. They have been a huge influence in my life as well as my husband and children.

So, my thoughts went to this place... do we truly appreciate those who serve us in ministry? Before you get a negative rumbling in the pit of your stomach, let me say that I not only speak from the perspective of being a pastor's kid and being the wife of a pastor, but as a person who sits in the pew.

I readily admit that there are plenty of people out there who misuse their positions of ministry.

I am not referring to them. I also readily admit that those serving in ministry are people just like you... meaning that they mess up.


Getting back to my thought, do we truly appreciate those God has chosen to serve us? Can I tell you that from their side it's not near as glamorous as one may think. I am very proud that my father was a faithful pastor all of my life, but there were many times I wish he just worked a job like my friends dads. So, much so, that at one point I "told" God (ha ha) that I would never marry someone in ministry. I won't bore you with details from my childhood or my experience as an adult. But suffice it to say, those serving in ministry are not shown appreciation.

I encourage you this week to let someone know how much you appreciate them and their ministry. But! before you do, make sure that you truly do appreciate them. If not, ask the Lord to soften your heart to those in ministry.

P.S. Never tell God you won't do something...my husband is in full time ministry.