Appreciation can find its way into the crevices of a wound, a misunderstanding, or the open heart of someone so loved it only serves to strengthen the bond of shared interest. Wouldn’t it be wonderful to have a NATIONAL APPRECIATION DAY where people could, out of gratitude, share with others how much they are cared for and appreciated? I would vote for a day like that, and I think you would also.
In the past few weeks, as a pastor, I have heard stories of stress, stories of the one straw that broke the camel’s back, so to speak. It is important to remember your foundational teachings in times like we have faced in 2020, e.g. teachings of faith such as, “I CAN’T GO UNDER FOR GOING OVER.” I have found songs of the heart have a way of building my spirit up on days when it is raining so hard you can’t go out and play, or shop, or visit friends. If you are looking for a ministry, this may be in your wheelhouse. We could call it, THE APPRECIATORS. They are very important, and the truth is they have shown up in our lives 100’s of times through the years of service to the Kingdom of God. They appear just at the right time, just when we needed them most. They appear in handwritten notes, letters, unexpected conversations, expressions of thankfulness, and many other ways. Sometimes, just an affirming smile goes a long way.
It is not a tongue in cheek statement with me. I truly appreciate your help in the work of God and your labor of love. One man would have a very small vineyard. Our’s is no backyard operation, in that God so loved the world.
I believe in you, and more importantly, I appreciate you. It is my privilege to serve you.
Pastor Cleddie Keith