stephen R Harrison

I once had someone leave the church I pastored because they said they got nothing from the sermon or service and it looked like pastoring was “getting to me” (although they didn’t explain).

I asked, “Didn’t I read the Scriptures? Didn’t I point out truths from it? Didn’t I share the gospel? Didn’t we pray? Didn’t we lift up the name of Jesus? Didn’t we sing songs of worship? Didn’t we take communion? Didn’t we fellowship with the body?”

“Was I unavailable to encourage by phone, text, or card since I seemed tired? Was I unapproachable to discuss this when I tried to check on you about your absence from church? Was praying for me not a better option than quitting on me?”

Brothers and sisters, we must do better.

Please, no comments of sympathy or shame. Just a reminder for us all that there are no perfect pastors, churches, or members. We are a broken people who gather to all be strengthened and encouraged by Christ and His church. Thankful for a perfect Savior.

Love and pray for your pastor. Pastors, love and pray for your people.

Romans 12:10 “Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves.”

1 Thessalonians 5:11 “Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.”

Galatians 6:2 “Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.”

1 Peter 3:8 “Live in harmony with one another; be sympathetic, love as brothers, be compassionate and humble.”