Derek Jeter

The New York Yankees’ hopes for success in this year’s playoffs took a severe blow when team captain Derek Jeter broke his ankle in the 12^th inning of the first game of the AL Championship Series against the Detroit Tigers.

As the 38-year-old Jeter was helped off the field, the fans showed their appreciation for their star player by chanting his name.

The members of my church have yet to chant my name on a Sunday morning, but this past Sunday they showed their appreciation for me (their preacher) and our youth minister in various ways. We received gifts from the congregation, cards signed by the members and many kind words of encouragement.

While not every Sunday is Pastor Appreciation Day, any time is a good time to be thankful for your church leaders—including those who earn their living in some vocation other than ministry.

How can you encourage a church leader today?

“Now we ask you, brothers, to respect those who work hard among you, who are over you in the Lord and who admonish you. Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work. Live in peace with each other.”—1 Thessalonians 5:12-13.