It’s clergy appreciation month. While I haven’t been sitting under a pastor for quite some time, I still appreciate the men and women of God who have spoken over my life, and those who have walked with my family through the tough times, and celebrated with us in times of joy.
I am hard on pastors. Honestly, I am hard on most people (ask my siblings or my kids), but I might be a little harder on people who are supposed to be keeping watch over my soul. I realize that pastors are just people. They are prone to the same mistakes as the rest of us, and they are in need of as much grace as I am…and I try to grant that grace. Sometimes, I fail fantastically, and for that I apologize.
To the preachers and pastors who have welcomed me into their Bible study and Sunday school classes over the last five years: Thank you for creating spaces where seekers like me feel welcome to share our thoughts and for allowing us ask tough questions.
To the clergy who showed up for weddings and funerals, even when I called at the last minute: I appreciate your willingness and your availability to serve. Thank you for sharing your gifts with my family when we most needed to hear from God.
To my YouTube pastors, specifically Rev. Drs. Marcus D. Cosby, and Howard-John Wesley: Thank you both for showing the world what Christian friendship and kinship can look like. These two men have defined for me what ministry partnership is. Each of them is a unique gift to the kingdom. They complement each other. They love each other unapologetically in public, and the world needs more of that. We’ve all seen pastors in competition with one another. It’s nice to see these two brothers collaborating.
And finally, to my favorite preacher in the world, the one I am married to: It is a joy to walk beside you as we do life together. Your prayers have carried me, comforted me, and kept me. I wasn’t ready when you first accepted your call. I’m probably still not ready now, but I will always and forever have your back. I will gladly be your Amen corner, and I can hardly wait to see what God does with us next.
There are wolves in sheep’s clothing in pulpits all around the world. IF you have a good pastor, be grateful. IF you don’t have a good pastor…go find one! There are men and women of God who really are called to love you to life.
I really do have a heart for those who are called to the ministry. Despite what you may have heard (or seen!)
Happy Clergy Appreciation Month.
The Gospel According to Gabrielle 