Living the Lifestyle of Appreciation
author line
In this week’s blog post, SPRC Chair Leigh Muller shares ideas on the culture of gratitude, which lasts far longer than Pastor Appreciation Month.
Have you ever walked down a greeting card aisle and wondered why certain holidays exist? As Christians, we obviously understand the genesis of Christmas and Easter, and we even see God’s work in Thanksgiving. (He did create the pecan tree after all. And I’m pretty sure the pie crust is Biblical. Clearly divine work.)
Diane, my co-worker, is quick to malign Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day and Father’s Day, calling them “Greeting Card” holidays, and thus she and her family do not celebrate them. Quick research into Valentine’s Day in the US supports her thesis. My gut reaction to these comments through the years has been, “Sure, maybe they’re corporate, but isn’t it great to find time to celebrate important relationships?”
Upon further introspection, I’ve decided that both Diane and I can be correct. A miracle in our divided world! And while I will not ever turn down special gifts or quality time with my husband and children on these alleged holidays, her point gnaws at me. In these most special earthly relationships, why do we need specific days to bring out the best in each other when we should be doing that all year through?
I’ve seen this concept called a “Lifestyle of Appreciation.” It’s the idea that we can change our mindset to constantly express gratitude for people, experiences and blessings in our lives. It is more than a moment, but rather a lifestyle that promotes a more positive outlook. It’s taking Monty Python’s advice to always look on the bright side of life.
October is known as Pastor Appreciation Month, which is a month set aside to honor the pastor’s contributions and ministry, and acknowledging a calling that is not limited to regular working hours. It’s recognizing the work that is seen and unseen.
Saying thank you to Pastor Steve and acknowledging his work and dedication this month is a nice thing to do. And if you feel led to write a note or show appreciation, I feel certain it will be received with warmth and gratitude.
But imagine if we honor our pastor by trying to practice what is preached. We volunteer to help a neighbor. We invite someone to a circle meeting. We pray and read to strengthen our personal walk with Jesus. We stop trying to find the things that divide us. We forgive. We practice a Lifestyle of Appreciation, creating a church culture that encourages our Pastor, staff, leaders and members in all months of the year.
In the verse below, Paul urges the church to recognize those in ministry who serve the community spiritually. This is ultimately good for the church and community, fostering peace and unity.
“Now we ask you, brothers and sisters, to acknowledge those who work hard among you, who care for you in the Lord and who admonish you. Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work. Live in peace with each other. "
-1 Thessalonians 5:12–13
Thank you to Pastor Steve, Rev. Lisa Cole, Rev. Belton Joyner and the others who have served us this year.
Let’s take Pastor Appreciation Month as a starting point—not a finish line. Let’s commit to living out a Lifestyle of Appreciation, not just in October, but every day. Write the note. Say the prayer. Extend the invitation. Let’s be the kind of church that doesn’t wait for holidays to celebrate love, service, and community. When we do, we reflect the heart of Christ and build a culture where encouragement flows freely, and gratitude becomes second nature.
-Leigh Muller SPRC Chair
