Jesus didn't use a pulpit!

“One day as he saw the crowds gathering, Jesus went up on the mountainside and sat down. His disciples gathered around him, and he began to teach them.”

Matthew 5:1-2 NLT.   (http://bible.com/116/mat.5.1-2.nlt)

I'm the son and grandson of a preacher. The gospel has been taught by my family for years. So, I can truly say I have witnessed a few sermons. One thing I never saw my grandfather or my own father do was sit while he was preaching. I'm not sure when the habit of standing behind a pulpit became the accepted way to deliver Gods word. It sure didn't start out that way. One of the most powerful sermons of all time was delivered while sitting down on the side of a hill. We might curse a preacher today if he asked to sit down.

Jesus was truly one of us. He would not want a "pulpit" to separate him from the ones he loved so dearly. As ministers of the word of God, we need to make sure we do not separate ourselves from the people who most need Jesus. It is so easy to make ourselves out to be "special". I'm not criticizing Pastors of churches who use pulpits. Obviously they have a practical function to hold bibles, notes, etc. But, I truly believe all preachers need to make sure they do not make themselves out to be above the world. My own pastor uses a small podium that is unobtrusive and practical. More importantly he does not speak to me from some ivory tower. He speaks to me like he were just sitting talking to me as a friend, as someone who is a part of us. He does not portray himself as a perfect person and doesn't demand respect, he earns it. My father and my grandfather were the same way. They were messenger of a perfect God, but they let everyone know they were imperfect people, flawed like the rest of us.

Dear Lord, thank you for my amazing pastor and the countless pastors that share your word. Bless them and speak to their hearts. Give them the perfect message to share with the lost. Keep them humble and real to the people they meet every day. Watch over them. Protect them and love them in a special way. Amen!

Love and Respect your Pastor!

Do not be hasty in the laying on of hands, and do not share in the sins of others. Keep yourself pure. (1 Timothy 5:22 NIV)

I had to do some research on this verse before I commented. Frankly, I wasn't sure what it meant and I'm glad I did. This verse refers to the ordination of church leaders. My Dad went into the ministry late in life. He started preaching with the Gideons and then received a part time church charge. It seemed like forever for him to get into full time ministry. He worked hard at ministry. He loved and cared for his church members. I had the great privilege of being one of those church members with my young family. It was one of the best times in my life. During that time I finally realized his real dedication to The Lord. 

After having a father in the ministry I've come to greatly respect and honor pastors. I've even had some close friends in the ministry. A full time spiritual leader of a church has an incredible responsibility. The appointment from God comes with it a crazy, busy schedule, demands that can't go unfilled, a flock of sheep that strain you mentally/spiritually, and countless hours of prayer and study. The expectations are a perfect life with no visible weaknesses. It can be a stress filled existence if it weren't for the power of the God they serve. Yes, some buckle to the pressure and their sins are displayed as a trophy for Satan. But, most thrive and live meaningful and fruitful lives in ministry.

Praise God he has chosen these men and women to lead our churches. Dear Lord bless them abundantly. Give them time for peace and rest. Grant them perfect wisdom and discernment. Protect them from the evil one. Guide their thoughts and give them the ability to bring the lost to you. For all the blessings you grant them,double that for their spouses and children. May all of these families serve you as examples for all of us. Thank you Lord for bringing these people into our daily lives. Love them and bless them forever, Amen!