I have been in ministry for as long as I can remember...seriously. Even if High School I was a leader in my youth group and leading the Jr. Youth. After taking a couple of Leadership courses and being involved in missions I was even a Youth Pastor for a little while. Loving people and pointing them back to a God that loves them dearly is a part of who I am. When I met Matt in 1999 he was working for Bethany Church. Since we married in 2000 he became the associate pastor and in 2003 he took the role of Senior Pastor. He was 29. We've been ministering at Bethany every since. We love our church and feel very blessed to go to church with friends that are more like family.
This month is a month set apart to appreciate Pastors - the men and women who faithfully serve and love us. It's been in my heart these last few days to write to my leaders.
Dave Horsman: Thank-you for leading us faithfully in worship every Sunday. Your heart and love for Jesus is a beautiful thing. Your humility and teach-ability makes you a great leader. Quietly we follow you because we trust your heart.
Jared Winger: Ohh how I love your heart for kids. You see the treasure each one is to the Lord and you cherish them in the same way. I love your desire to build into the whole family seeing that a strong marriage makes a strong family. You have a father's heart and I want to thank you for letting so many kids be blessed by it.
Dave Willcock: You bless me. Your tender heart for orphans and the needy...usually expressed through tears. Your hunger for truth and the life changes you've made when you find it. I have loved watching you grow over the past couple of years. You are a forerunner paving the way for many to follow.
Ken Krause: You are one of a kind. I love your "Speak from the heart!" "Say it like it is! Approach to pastoring. I know you love the Lord and are willing to follow where ever He leads...whether that is working in central Asia or being a Pastor/ farmer in Minnesota. You are hard working and simple - in all the best ways. When I'm around you things are less complicated - the way they should be. Thanks for everything you bring to our congregation.
My sweet husband Matt: Thank you. For every moment you spend pouring out to everyone around you. You are a servant-leader. I will happily follow where ever you lead. I trust you and love hearing you bring the Word. What a precious thing for me to witness you roll on the floor playing with your kids in the morning, meet with City leaders at noon, listen for direction for our church and then come home to help with dinner and dishes. I love you...and I don't tell you enough how much I appreciate your leadership.
I appreciate these guys and I just wanted them to know.
It doesn't take long to write to your Pastor/Leader and tell them you appreciate them...it will make their day! If you want ideas but don't know what to do I found a website that may help.
If you don't find anything there...here's another website with ideas!
Be blessed by being a blessing!