As you walk or run today, think about the Scripture below. Ask yourself the questions. Talk with Jesus about your answers. Enjoy your time with your Savior! 

[Jesus] went up on a mountainside by himself to pray. When evening came, he was there alone. (Matthew 14:23 NIV)

Runners (and often walkers, too) pay particular attention to their knees. Knee injuries can ruin an athletic career or an exercise program. 

† As I serve today in Jesus’ steps, how diligent am I in my “knee work”? 

† When have I seen my Savior respond to my prayers? What do I want to say to him about that today?

 Lord Jesus, you graciously choose to hear my prayers. You promise that my prayers touch your heart. Lord, teach me to pray, just as you taught your first disciples to pray. Amen.

2009 Servant Heart Pastor of the Year winner Rev. Donald Ruth

“Our pastor is a humble-spirited kingdom builder,” reads the nomination from his congregation. He “reaches out to all races, ages, and socio-economic groups. He is about meeting needs, regardless of the cost. This awesome man of God is the very essence of love and untiringly gives so much to so many.”

In addition to serving at St. John’s, Pastor Ruth founded St. John Bible Institute in 2002. He also recently began an educational summer camp for young children aimed at reaching out and enhancing the lives of local youth. Pastor Ruth’s ministry spans racial, social, and international boundaries. 

As the grand prize winner for this award, Rev. Ruth receives an all-expense-paid trip to a seminar of his choice at the Billy Graham Training Center—The Cove—in Ashville, N.C. In partnership with The Cove, CTA sponsors the annual Servant Heart Pastor of the Year award in recognition of October as Pastor Appreciation Month.

Recently I cruised the CTA website and decided to check out some pages I hadn’t looked at in some time. Remembering that during October many churches set aside special time to honor their pastors in special ways, I headed to the CTA Pastor Appreciation link. As I pulled up the pages I discovered something I had no idea was on the site – a free, downloadable PDF file titled, CTA’s Favorite Ways to Show Pastor and Staff Appreciation. I love stumbling across new and creative ideas, especially if they’ve been used successfully in other churches. This list of twenty ideas came from the CTA staff, who likely have observed them used in their congregations. What a great resource. And it’s free!

I then found four other free downloads to help churches recognize and honor pastors … customizable postcard templates, name badges, a power point presentation, and a brochure by Sonscape Retreats titled, 50 Ways to Love Your Pastor. What great discoveries – even better than three dollars in a coat pocket!