"Double Honor" 

1 Timothy 5:17  Let the elders who rule well be counted worthy of double honor, especially those who labor in the word and doctrine. 

October is Pastor's Appreciation Month. We, at Grace Harbor Church, are truly blessed by God to have an outstanding, God-anointed, servant of the Lord Jesus Christ. His name is Pastor Fred Snider, and I consider him to be extremely worthy of double honor. He is my dear friend and brother, a mentor in the faith, and a co-laborer in the ministry God has called us to at Grace Harbor. Is he perfect? Certainly not, and he would be the first to admit that. But I don't know of anyone who pours more of himself into the lives of those he ministers to on behalf of the gospel of Jesus Christ. He has a sincere heart and a love for the flock that has been entrusted to his care which is clearly evident in all that he does. And that, by the way, is an extremely extensive list.

Pastor Fred makes numerous hospital visits at all hours; he counsels those in need of extra spiritual guidance; he preaches and teaches faithfully through the Word of God; he writes a devotional almost every day all year long; he shows up, sets up, cleans up, and participates in most all church activities; he officiates weddings, funerals, baptisms, and baby dedications; he serves in the local community and makes sure food is always available to anyone who needs it; he attends birthday parties, wedding and baby showers, and many other such social gatherings; he opens his home to those in need of fellowship and hospitality; and the list goes on and on.  I'm sure I've left out many more things that he does so selflessly, never seeking attention or appreciation for himself, but rather, seeking always to give glory to God. And somehow, amid all of this, he finds time for his family, and along with his precious wife, helps to raise their grandchildren. I stand in awe of this amazing man of God that I am blessed with the privilege of knowing. 

My challenge to you, not only during Pastor's Appreciation Month, but all throughout the year, is to not only "say" that you appreciate him (which is important for him to hear), but to also "show" that you do. The best way to do that, and the way that I'm sure would bless him most, is if you would come alongside him and join him in ministry. Not only would that help to lighten the load of his responsibility, but it would also exponentially expand his ability to spread the gospel. There is no better way to show "double honor" to a man who is so deserving of it. 

Love in Jesus, 
Hank