Show and tell

Do you remember when the teacher would say “Don’t forget, tomorrow it’s show and tell day” and you would talk with your friends on the way home about what you were going to take to share? When your mom would asked “How was your day?” you told her all about what you had decided to take to school and share. It was a big deal.

I have a pastor who is wonderful at show and tell. You see he tells me every Sunday about his first love, Jesus. He takes hours every week in preparation and prayer, always listening to the Holy Spirit as his inspiration, as he chooses his scripture and words very carefully in hopes they will penetrate and find a place in my heart. As he speaks, I can hear the passion in his voice and see the tears in his eyes as he shares his first love.

The showing part of this story is what I see when he is not at the pulpit. I see his office door open and close all day long, as he sees people with questions and concerns as they seek his wisdom. His day gets full quickly with everything but his own plans for the day. It seems his heart always has time to share the word.

My pastor has a twinkle in his eye just before he laughs and says “I’m just kidding.” He would have made a poor poker player. He has a leadership style that is undeniable; he lets other people work in their giftings, he allows other people around him to hold up his arms when he is weary and always says he forgives me before I ask.

What gift would he ask for on Pastor Appreciation Day – that we share and tell everyone about his first love, Jesus.

In I Timothy 5:17, we read: “Elders who provide effective leadership must be counted worthy of double honor, especially those who work at speaking and teaching.” Or show and tell.