Thanks Day 18

Today, I am so thankful for my Pastor's.  Growing up as a PK (preacher's kid) you have a different outlook on Pastor's & their family than some people.  I know that they are normal people going through normal things.  The only thing is, they are called by God to do a job & they are held accountable for this.  They have HUGE amounts of stress put on them.  "To whom much is given, much is required" (Luke 12:48).  Their "job" never ends.  They are on call 24/7, even when on "vacation."  They and their families too often live in a glass house.  It isn't always pretty, but the calling is something that isn't taken lightly.  Does the calling put them on the pedestal?  No.  All too often people put them there & then are let down if they make a mistake.  They are human too.  They don't always do stuff the way that we may "think" it should be done, but I know without a shadow of a doubt, that Pastors take time, they pray, they seek counsel, they wait & then they do. 

I have had the privilege of being Pastored by my father.  This was a blessing & maybe a curse.  Simply because you love having him there, but you don't always get the "Pastor" part of him. 

Well, now...I am extremely blessed with 2 Pastor's in my life that are amazing.  I am so thankful that God has allowed me to get to know them & their families.  I am encouraged & fed by them.  They are so open & available to what God wants of them.  It is refreshing.  They are there for me.  They pray for us.  They care for us.  They help us.  They love us.  We are blessed!

So, Pastor Freddy & Shannon (Isaiah, Isabelle, Illiza & Ilana), I am so thankful for all of you.  Thank you for following God's call on your life.  Thank you Shannon & kids for supporting your Husband & Dad.  Thank you for sometimes giving up your own time with him, in order for us (speaking for our family) to have time with him.  Thank you for all your sacrifice.  I know in the end, it will be worth it all for each of you!  The devil may try to attack, but remember, he will never win.  God is victorious!  Love you all!

Pastor Philip & Stacey (Elijah), I am so thankful for you all as well!!!  Thank you for answering God's call on your lives.   Thank you, Stacey & Elijah, for supporting your Husband & Dad.  I know that sometimes you give up your time with Philip when we need him.  Thank you for all your sacrifice.  As I said above, I know in the end, it will be worth it all for each of you!  The devil will try to attack, but God is victorious!  Love you all!!!

So, thank you so much for being my Pastors.  I admire you for who you are in Christ.  I appreciate all you do for me & my family.  Thank you for continuing to listen to God & following His will for your life. 

Pastor's Freddy & Philip