A little over a month ago, one of the pastors at my church took a sudden leave of absence. At the time, we weren’t given much of a reason as to why, beyond the “need for rest”. After thinking about it, it made sense to me. The last couple of years had been quite strenuous for him, as he had been overseeing a bunch of new church projects, as well as doing what he could to get his children acclimated to our school system, given that they weren’t originally from here. It’s a big load for one man to carry, let alone the pastor of a growing church.

When I was told that he’d be coming back this past Sunday, I didn’t really know what to think. On one hand, I was excited about seeing him again. We have a good friendship and have confided in each other about various things. On the other hand, I couldn’t shake the sickly feeling I’d been having in my gut ever since I first heard about his break. Something was telling me there was a more serious reason why he took time off, yet I couldn’t figure out what it was.

After worship concluded at the end of our service, he took the stage after the service ended and he announced he was resigning at the end of this month. He cited poor health, as well as exhaustion. The room went from deathly silent to being filled with confused murmuring after we were dismissed. I managed to chat with him for a few minutes after the service, and I could see exactly what he was talking about. A typically confident and jovial man, he was visibly drained, his voice quieter, and his entire demeanor the total opposite of who he usually is. It was jarring, to say the least.

While this is a new experience for most of us, I feel compelled to reiterate the yoke a pastor carries. It’s not easy, and it’s nowhere near a light one. Pastors are counselors and caregivers for the congregation. They spell the words of the Word out for us in a way that makes sense, they minister to both saved and lost souls, and they are the leaders of the Christian community. On top of usually being family men and having the same financial responsibilities that us average folk have, it’s not always smooth sailing.

Seeing what happened to our pastor has made me really grow to understand the need for the congregation to support the pastor. It’s not a one-way street, and it never has been. The shepherds need to be ministered to as well, not just the flock. I’m not trying to say the elders and deacons at my church didn’t do their job in this situation, far from it. I’m just saying that more Christians need to realize how important being a pastor is. They’re not invincible statues of steel that can withstand being pelted with stones and acid rain. They’re imperfect human beings, just like us. Stumbling and struggling is not only natural, it should be expected. This is why we have elders and guides in place to assist when this happens.

I’m offering a challenge to every Christian who reads this: talk to your pastor and let him know that he has your support. Make him feel comfortable and welcome. It goes without saying, but prayer is also very important. Don’t just receive, give as well. Give your pastor the encouragement and comfort that he has given you. Trust me, it goes a long way.

That’s all for now, have a good rest of your day.