The Table

I recently had the opportunity to go to a four-day pastor’s retreat and minister to several pastors who were there. One of the things I loved about the time there is that the only expectation for the attendees of the retreat is that they would be at the table for dinner.

What made this time special is that after everyone finished eating there would be great discussions, confessions, encouragements, and prayers. The table was not the focus, but it was the place where the focus could happen. 

The table… 

When was the last time you took a pastor or a ministry leader or their spouse out to eat, sat at a table and let them talk? Many of you reading this would agree that there is not enough time around the table anymore. I think it is important to note here that the night before Jesus was crucified he was at the table, a place where he could be with his friends.

If you have a close relationship with a ministry leader or their spouse, take them to coffee or lunch and ask them to share what is going on in their lives and how you can pray for them. It may shock you as to what they say. They may not feel like they can give you the real answers. Once you finish the conversation, pray for them…right there where you are. Then, go home and pray for them regularly.

If you haven’t figured it out yet, pastors, ministry leaders, and their spouses need your prayers. They need a table… a place where they can have a great discussion, or confession, or receive encouragement, or be prayed for.

October is Pastor Appreciation Month!!

Who can you invite to your table?

—John