Thankful Thursday - Dear Pastor

Did you know that October is Pastor Appreciation Month? Well, it is and I wanted to focus today's blog on the man in my life who is my pastor, but also the servant-leader of our home to me and our children. To be honest, it has been a tough month at our little Church here in North Dallas and Andrew just commented the other day how it is getting harder and harder to "not bring the troubles" swirling around in his heart and head home each night. (It also doesn't help that he has meetings/counselling until 10 or so about 3-4 nights a week.) Don't get me wrong, we love this Church and the people in it and we know without a doubt that this is EXACTLY where the Lord wants us. It is just a little hard at times and I feel like sometimes I can't encourage my man enough, SO I thought I would take it public and share some things I just love about my pastor/hubby. Also, I thought I might share the opportunity out there for anyone who wants to participate. Your pastor might not be my pastor, but I think we all agree that these men the Lord has placed in our lives to shepherd us don't hear some much needed encouragement enough. Like me, you may have a long list of things you love about your pastor but, for the sake of readability, let's limit ourselves to five. So, here goes mine.

Andrew, God's blessing to me,

1. I LOVE that you are a true worshipper! It is the one major thing that attracted me to you way back in '97. :) I have always loved watching you worship in song, but I have to tell you that you also worship Him with everything you have and it is so evident!

2. You love God and His Word. I love how you take preparing for Sundays very seriously. You are always true the Bible and uncompromising in your defense of the Word. You really are an incredible preacher and are always so relevant and engaging in your teaching.

3. You love your family. Thank you for always "guarding" your family time for us. Family Fun Fridays are my (and the kiddos) favorites! I always feel treasured and respected by you. I am truly one BLESSED girl!

4. You genuinely love the people of our Church and community. The Lord has given you such a heart for these wonderful, but also hurting people. I love how you always try to make every member of the "family/body" feel important and like God really has a purpose for their life right where they are.

5. You are a great visionary. You are having to make big and hard decisions for this Church every day and I know (b/c I live with you - hehe:) that you won't make even the smallest decision without seeking the Lord and then wise counsel first.

Babe, you are pretty much amazing and I love you so very much! This road isn't always easy, but I love the ride with you by my side as smooth or bumpy as it is. I am so proud of you and the many ways you have stepped into a lead pastor role the last 2 years. The Lord is using you to mold and shape hearts for His glory and no "bad day" can take that away from you. My heart is swelling with gratitude and thankfulness today for you and I just had to tell you!