One of the greatest gifts you can give a pastor or church staff member is to say something positive about his or her family. The families of pastors often feel like they live in a glass house. It is incredibly affirming to these families when church members see good things in the glass house.

I love pastors and church staff. I think their vocation is incredibly tough. In fact, it is impossible without God’s strength and comfort.

As we reflect this Christmas Eve on the blessing of our Savior’s birth, let us also reflect on the blessings of the pastors and other church staff who serve us, who care for us, and who love us.

May I be so bold and presumptuous to suggest some Christmas gifts you can give those who serve in your church? They have no financial cost, but their value is inestimable.

1. Tell your pastors you pray for them. And let them know you do so because you find joy in praying for them and loving them.
2. Give your pastors some words of encouragement. They have plenty of self-appointed critics. You can be one of the “other group.”
3. If your pastor has children at home, offer childcare. Be specific. Tell your pastor that you want to look after the kids on three specific dates, and that you expect to receive those dates to put them on the calendar.
4. Send your pastor a handwritten note.

[Editor’s note: This article is incomplete. The link (URL) to the original article at Church Answers is unavailable and has been removed.]