byIn my few years in this life, I’ve seen several people die, sometimes in very bad ways. However, the aftermath of their departure is when several people lay out long condolences messages to them and their families. Those acts are good. But the reality is that the people who ought to see these things are no more. So, why wait for someone to die before honouring them? It doesn’t make sense. But that’s what has been happening in the world, and it’s sad. Today’s edition of the pastor’s appreciation article post series delves deeper into why you must celebrate your pastor while he’s available and not when he’s gone. I draw inspiration from the encounter between Jesus and Mary, the woman with the alabaster box. Let’s read the scripture first.
[3] “Then Mary took a pound of very costly oil of spikenard, anointed the feet of Jesus, and wiped His feet with her hair. And the house was filled with the fragrance of the oil. [4] But one of His disciples, Judas Iscariot, Simon’s son, who would betray Him, said, [5] “Why was this fragrant oil not sold for three hundred denarii and given to the poor?” [6] This he said, not that he cared for the poor, but because he was a thief, and had the money box; and he used to take what was put in it. [7] But Jesus said, “Let her alone; she has kept this for the day of My burial. [8] For the poor you have with you always, but Me you do not have always.” — John 12:3-8 (NKJV)
Some conditions may never change.
When Mary poured a costly oil on Jesus’ feet, Judas Iscariot protested against it. He suggested that the oil could have been sold and the money donated to the poor. Although the Bible says he said it with a sinister motive behind it, which Jesus knew, somehow, what he said made some sense. You see, several companies work so hard on cutting down costs. I think Judas’ idea could have landed him an employee as a clever accountant. But Jesus’ reply brought in something new, which I want to talk about today. Jesus said,
[7] … “Let her alone; she has kept this for the day of My burial. [8] For the poor you have with you always, but Me you do not have always.”
John 12:3-8 (NKJV)
My emphasis is on the phrase “… the poor you have with you always”. Look, according to Jesus, things like poverty will never cease in this world. There will always be a section of the body of Christ that doesn’t have enough resources to live comfortable lives. Some will work hard and get out of that realm, but some will remain there, and possibly more people will join them.
Aside from this, there are also other situations and conditions on this Earth that will never change. And because of this, it is essential to note that you can always press on to do something special for your pastor, no matter the prevailing factors. If Mary had cared so much about the poor, she wouldn’t have honoured Jesus with that expensive oil. Go all your way out to celebrate your pastor while he’s available (using “he” is not gender related).
When God prompts you to do something special for your pastor, do it as soon as possible.
Please don’t wait to honour your pastor on his day of burial.
Many people don’t realise that ministry encompasses much more than they think. Every pastor deserves to enjoy the fruit of their labour. But of what essence is it to wait for the person to die before honouring them? Mary kept that oil to anoint Jesus on His day of burial, but couldn’t wait for that burial day to come to do her wish. Sometimes, it isn’t the best to save your last effort for the last second. When God prompts you to do something special for your pastor, do it as soon as possible.
You’re a blessing.
