I really don't know why it is so hard to be "gracious". The word means to be "polite, kind or courteous". It's just a necessary character trait to have friends. But unfortunately, it's a trait buried. Again, why? I really think we breed ingratitude by not expressing gratitude. It's so much easier to complain than to be appreciative.
A fellow by the name of Robert Brauet said, " There is no such thing as gratitude unexpressed. If unexpressed, it is plain, old-fashioned ingratitude." G.B. Stern quoted "Silent gratitude isn't much use to anyone." I am totally unimpressed with the saying, "It's the thought that matters." Excuse me; who profited from an unexpressed thought or an unsent card? I would much rather you not say anything to me if it is a sentence with "I meant to...." preceding it!
I guess it's because we forget to daily express gratitude that prompted the need for a yearly commemorative day to tell mothers, fathers, children, siblings, grandparents (and don't forget the inlaws) that you love and appreciate them. So we facebook, text or splurge and send a yearly $4.00 card to the nationally selected person to express our thoughts.
I love getting cards on special days, but if that's the only time I'm told I an appreciated or I am telling someone I appreciate them, I think there's something wrong with the picture. I take a little offense that people have to have their minds jogged by advertisement to tell me they love me. Clarification: I do use every opportunity (including national) to tell someone I appreciate them.
I love getting cards on special days, but if that's the only time I'm told I an appreciated or I am telling someone I appreciate them, I think there's something wrong with the picture. I take a little offense that people have to have their minds jogged by advertisement to tell me they love me. Clarification: I do use every opportunity (including national) to tell someone I appreciate them.
So, we have a big opportunity in the month of October! It's Pastor Appreciation month! Has it been a year since I last thought of that???....
I'm jabbing a little! But admit it! Arent we selfish? Truly, how hard is it to shake your pastor's hand every Sunday or give him a hug and say " Thanks, brother, I needed that sermon!" Or a simple "Appreciate you." Maybe a before service reminder "Praying for you today" to give him a boost. How about a Saturday evening when you are relaxing and eating out, sending him a text, "Praying for you as you make preparation for tomorrow."
Do a public tribute to your pastor if you want; I encourage it. Just saying.....it will be much more effective if you' ve sprinkled appreciation on the pastor throughout the year.
And don't forget the overlooked pastor's spouse. The pastor's wife often gives as much or more than her husband. If there's honor given, its likely in the name of her husband while she smilingly sits in the shadows and listens! Give an accolade to the pastor's wife!
Find a way to bless the pastor's family. They are often the most criticized because they are supposed to be "perfect". Remember, they sacrifice a lot (much more than people know). They didn't choose to be in the spotlight! Give a shoutout for the pastor's children!
Here's the challenge. If you aren't given to compliments: put this reminder for once a month for the next year in your Iphone. "Bless my Pastor and his family". That way you wont be surprised when October 2016 rolls around and you hear its "Pastor Appreciation Month!" Again?
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