Leader To Leader Ministries

October is “Pastor Appreciation Month” and I want to give a word of appreciation to a dear friend of mine who was the first pastor I served with. I was fresh out of Northwest College in 1982 when Pastor Bob Fox took a chance on this young and inexperienced guy and hired me as his music pastor. He not only put me in charge of music but also let me grow in areas of teaching, preaching, counseling, hospital visitation, weddings and funerals, board meetings, and even let me become the church janitor! (Ah, those were the days). Bob loved me and was patient with me as I made mistakes and grew, and today he is one of my dearest friends. Because of his mentoring influence I am able to help younger pastors today become all they can be for Jesus. Pastors, watch for young leaders God brings in your life and honor them by pouring part of you into them. You’ll be blessed in SO many ways. Pastor Bob, I appreciate you!! I love you too.

“Things I’ve Learned on the Pastoral Journey”

“YOU be in charge of YOUR schedule! Don’t let others make it for you.”

As I pastored I soon discovered people had needs, and most of them seemed like they needed to be dealt with IMMEDIATELY. At least that’s what the needy person communicated. They believed their needs were the most important thing I had to deal with on a given day and some were offended when I didn’t drop everything to come to their aid.

Now obviously emergencies happen, and emergencies usually need to be dealt with very quickly. Pastors understand this and will help in any way possible. But, the situation that has been simmering for years (marital strife, financial problems, work situations, etc.) can probably be discussed at a scheduled future date instead of RIGHT NOW!!