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Base Text:
Hebrews 13:17 (NKJV)
“Obey those who rule over you, and be submissive, for they watch out for your souls as those who must give account. Let them do so with joy and not with grief, for that would be unprofitable for you.”

Today is a special day — a day of celebration and gratitude. We have gathered to honor the men and women of God who have dedicated their lives to serving the Lord and caring for His people: our pastors.

They not only preach, pray, and teach; they also walk with us, guide us, and love with a pastoral heart that reflects the character of Christ, the Good Shepherd.

We thank God for the lives of Pastors Ayala, who for nine years have faithfully led this ministry, and for many more have served the Lord with dedication and passion.

Today we want to recognize their effort, love, and faithfulness — but above all, we want to honor God, who called and sustained them until this day.

1. What Does It Mean to Honor Our Pastors?

To honor means to respect their authority, support their ministry, and acknowledge their spiritual responsibility.
God has chosen them to watch over our souls, guide us, correct us, and build us up in faith.

Hebrews 13:17 reminds us that they will give an account before God for how they cared for us.
Therefore, our attitude toward them should be one of obedience, respect, and gratitude.

2. Practical Ways to Honor Them

Obedience and Respect
God calls us to submit to our pastors (1 Peter 5:5).
Not because they are perfect, but because God has placed them as spiritual authority over us.
Obedience demonstrates humility and trust in God’s divine order.

Constant Prayer
They pray for us day and night — but how often do we pray for them?
They need our prayers for strength, wisdom, health, and direction.
Remember: the prayer of the church is the fuel of the pastoral ministry.

Active Support
We honor our pastors by serving alongside them.
Participating in activities, supporting vigils, events, or ministries helps lighten their load and strengthen God’s work.
Support is not only physical presence but also a willing heart.

Imitate Their Faith
God promises in Jeremiah 3:15:

“Then I will give you shepherds after My own heart, who will feed you with knowledge and understanding.”

Our pastors are examples of faith, perseverance, and love.
Let us follow their example as they follow Christ (1 Corinthians 11:1).

Sincere Appreciation
1 Thessalonians 5:12–13 urges us to esteem and recognize those who labor among us.
A message, a call, a word of encouragement, or a small gesture can strengthen a pastor’s heart more than you imagine.
Honor is not just words — it is action and genuine appreciation.

Avoid Comparisons
Every pastor is unique. God equips each one with different gifts according to His purpose.
Comparison destroys unity, but appreciation builds up the body of Christ.
Our pastors are a divine gift specifically chosen for this church.

Final Reflection

Pastoral leadership is not an easy task.
They face spiritual battles, personal challenges, and burdens that often no one sees.
Therefore, to honor them is also to care for them, pray for them, and love them sincerely.

When we honor our pastors, we honor God Himself, because we recognize the authority He has established over His church.

Prayer

Good Father, we thank You for the lives of our pastors.
Thank You for their obedience to Your call, for their love, their effort, and their faithfulness.
We ask that You bless them, strengthen them, and multiply grace and wisdom upon them.
May their work always be filled with joy, and may the church reflect the love and unity that come from You.

In Jesus’ name,
Amen.

Sincerely, Jenifer Mejia