I have been blessed by the spiritual leadership of many men and women in my life. Earlier this year one of my childhood pastors, the Rev. Pedro Rosario, went home to be with the Lord. Although it has been more than three decades since he served at our church, his spiritual imprint remains on my heart.
Rev. Rosario’s passion and dedication to the church greatly shaped his work ethic and ministry. I recall when my late uncle Felix was very ill, my aunt called Rev. Rosario in the middle of the night. He told her not to worry, that he would drive to her home to pray for him. Thankfully the Lord healed my uncle from his sickness, and my aunt is still deeply appreciative for her pastor’s love and care. When I became a pastor at 21, Rev. Rosario set an example for my spiritual leadership in the church.
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The call to be a pastor is filled with many blessings and challenges. Pastors work within the congregation and the community. They, just like us, have their own struggles, sins, limitations, faults and defects. They are not perfect, just human. It’s only through God’s grace they fulfill their calling.
Do you know that October is Clergy Appreciation month? This is a good time to remember our pastors and spiritual leaders in prayer and express our gratitude for their ministry. I encourage you to text or email thanks to your pastor. Or call or send a hand-written note or gift to express your appreciation for their service. It will lift their spirits and encourage them in more ways than you can imagine.
How has a pastor or spiritual leader blessed your life? Please share with us.
Lord, thank you for all those you have called to serve as pastors and spiritual leaders; help us to appreciate their service in small and big ways.
