Each week (with a few exceptions) since COVID, I have written what I have called the Midweek Message. This is week #271. For the record I was against masks (still am) and even social distancing, but we chose to honor our governor’s wish to not meet. So I created the Midweek Message to stay in touch with the OVCF family and friends, as well as other ways. With a few exceptions for holidays and if I was going to be gone, I have kept the people informed on a variety of issues. Educator of the Week (whom we list and pray for, which, BTW includes our homeschool moms). Youth News (various awards, games, accomplishments, etc). Various calendar events involving the church family. Miscellaneous items. Some nonsense at times. And usually a word or two of inspiration from me. In this week’s issue I share something that is important to me. 

The month of October was designated as Pastor Appreciation Month years ago by Focus on the Family. It was designed for churches to recognize their pastors for their service. We have never publicized it or made it a big deal for various reason. I’m uncomfortable with public recognition for something I love to do and know it is a team effort. I read recently of a pastor who was asked, “How Can I Pray For You?” He answered with a list of 10 things. That was a bit much for me, so I gave it my “touch,” and put in into 6 things:

1. Pray that I would find a daily joy in my relationship with God. (Ps. 42:1; Mt. 5:6)
2. Pray that I would not settle for a second rate relationship with Jesus, but will continually grow in holiness and godliness. (I Tim. 4:8)
3. Pray that I would prioritize prayer and my study of the Word. (I Tim. 4:1-2)
4. Pray for my marriage and that I will love Jo sacrificially and my children (although they are adults) unconditionally. (Eph. 5:25-30)
5. Pray that I will love the lost and serve OVCF zealously and sacrificially. (Acts 20:28)
6. Pray that I will preach God’s Word boldly and without compromise. (2 Tim. 4:2-5) 

I then close with this thought: if you pray those items for me and over me, I would be a most happy man and know that I am being the pastor God wants me to be. 

May I ask you to pray those for me? And why not include your own pastor in that prayer (then drop him a note to let him know)?  I guarantee he will think he has died and gone to heaven. 🙂