Better than a paycheck …

You don’t have to teach people to complain, criticize, or be selfish. We’re naturals at it. But we do have to learn to express appreciation. People need to be appreciated.

In fact, an unknown source once wrote, “There is more hunger for love and appreciation in this world than for bread.”

An example of this comes from a story told by Mike Rothenberger, as follows:

A businessman went downtown to his office one morning, a couple of hours earlier than usual. He had some things he wanted to do before the employees came to work. No one was there when he arrived except old Tom, the custodian of the building. Tom was a faithful employee of many years service to the company. When the boss walked into his office there was Tom emptying the ashtrays, dusting the furniture, and tidying up the place.

When the boss noticed him going about his routine, he said, “Tom, you know, as I look around this place, I can’t help thinking what an asset you have been to our organization for all these years. You have kept this place clean and cheerful for our employees and our customers to enjoy.”

“Tom,” he said, “You are an important member of this organization and I want you to know that I appreciate you and all you have done.”

Tom said “Thank you, boss,” and walked out of the room with his dust cloth in his hand.

A few minutes passed and the boss had settled down to work at his desk, and then the door to his office opened and in came Tom. His eyes were moist, there was a tear on his cheek. The boss could not understand. He said, “What’s wrong, Tom, did I say something to offend you?”

Tom said, “No boss, you didn’t offend me, but I have something I want to tell you.”

“Boss,” he said, “You know that I have worked right here in this place for seventeen years — twelve of those years I have worked for you — and this morning is the first time anyone ever told me that they appreciated anything I do.”

He said, “Boss, I just wanted you to know that I appreciate what you said to me this morning more than I have ever appreciated my paycheck that you sign for me. I just wanted to tell you.” He then turned and walked out of the room.

People like Tom, who more often “work in the background,” can be too easily overlooked. However, just because someone may be out front doesn’t mean they get the appreciation they deserve for their work, either.

Such is the case for many pastors. Church leaders are usually the most seen on stage in front of a congregation, but the reality is they don’t often hear words of encouragement or appreciation for what they do — not just from a stage, but the real majority of their work, which doesn’t involve any kind of stage.

That’s why October is Pastor Appreciation Month. It’s an opportunity to make sure we’re intentionally taking notice of the persistent selfless sacrifice of service pastors give to their congregations and communities in the name of Jesus Christ.

Like Tom, you may have been around a long time, but when was the last time you personally shared with your pastor your appreciation of his service, and how he has likely been a blessing to your life? Don’t let the month pass without doing just that.

Scotty