Can you explain to me why the church does a great job of showing compassion toward others, but sometimes struggle to extend that same care to their pastor?
I mean it.
If Mr. and Mrs. John Q. Layman are having a hard time coping with life, everyone and their brother offers to pray, watch the kids, bring meals, and give tons of grace.
That’s not always the case when the hurting couple is none other than Rev. and Mrs. Richard C. Pastor. They should know what to do, how to handle life’s crud, and still minister to the flock.
Why? Who said so? Jesus?
I don’t think so.
Jesus grew weary, lost a family member who was also a close friend, and had need for people and angels to minister to Him.
Remember?
“Now it came to pass, afterward, that He went through every city and village, preaching and bringing the glad tidings of the kingdom of God. And the twelve were with Him, and certain women who had been healed of evil spirits and infirmities – Mary called Magdalene, out of whom had come seven demons, and Joanna the wife of Chuza, Herod’s steward, and Susanna, and many others who provided for Him from their substance.” (Luke 8:1 – 8:3 NKJV)
“Immediately the Spirit drove Him into the wilderness. And He was there in the wilderness forty days, tempted by Satan, and was with the wild beasts; and the angels ministered to Him.” (Mark 1:12 – 1:13 NKJV)
My point? Jesus had times when He needed help from others.
So why do we expect pastors to be superhuman?
Men and women of God are not God. They have frailties and weaknesses like everyone else. And even though they may be proficient in helping others handle life’s issues, they’re not always hitting on all cylinders when it comes to trying to deal with what life throws at them and their family members.
Are YOU always running at 100% efficiency? I’m not.
“But the bible says…”
How about quoting the bible while YOU are being run over by a freight train, and see how well you manage.
Super Pastor does not exist.
What DOES exist is the Body of Christ, who, according to the Apostle Paul, should have the same care one for another (1 Corinthians 12).
It seems everyone is looking for a superhero these days; yes, even in the church.
And though God anoints men and women with His Holy Spirit, it doesn’t mean they never tire or become discouraged.
Are YOU a pastor? If so, will you stop trying to be Super Pastor? You don’t have to tell everyone all your shortcomings or fears and frustrations. But don’t act as though you have none.
Are YOU part of a local church body? What do YOU do to support, encourage, and serve your pastor and family?
Are you adding to their load, or helping them carry theirs?
Should you expect your pastor to be an exemplary believer? Absolutely! But that doesn’t equate to perfection.
Your pastor and family face things many Christians never will, besides dealing with all the “normal” stuff. They get tired, depressed, and worried about one thing and another.
Just like you and I.
They need your love and prayers, just like you need theirs.
It’s been said many pastors quit “the ministry” each year. Maybe the numbers wouldn’t be so high if the Church acted like we’re supposed to.
“And if one member suffers, all the members suffer with it; or if one member is honored, all the members rejoice with it. Now you are the body of Christ, and members individually.” (1 Corinthians 12:26 – 12:27 NKJV)
Jan Grace 