PRESUPPOSITIONS
*** “THE GREATEST OF THESE (FAITH AND HOPE AND LOVE) IS LOVE.” SO IT MAY BE THE BEST THING A PASTOR CAN DO.
*** LOVE IS TO BE SHOWN AND SAID. ONE ONLY IS INADEQUATE.
*** A GOOD SHEPHERD MAJORS ON RELATIONSHIPS AS WELL AS METHODS.
TO THE CHURCH
… Say it on Sunday every five or six weeks! Not a sentimental, dramatic statement, but more like, “A reminder that I love you and your staff loves you, and we will do what is best for you, which is the way of love. It is so good to be connected this way!”
…A monthly pastoral letter with updates about church life, finances, and statements full of care for the people.
…An end-of-week text to the people with short thoughts about what is coming Sunday, Or a 15-second video mentioning the theme, that they can use to invite a friend. A loving invitation! (Some people decide Friday or Saturday whether they will do church on Sunday!)
… Preach hard truth with the mood of love and sympathy, and knowing that you also are a “frail child of dust.”
… Listen, listen, listen. “Be quick to listen and slow to speak,” one of the brothers of Jesus said. When you are listening to a person in need after the service and someone tries to shake your hand, go ahead and shake the hand, but keep listening to the person. You are modeling love.
…. Be kind. You will be known by your manner more than by your preaching or your leadership. Remember how the King of the universe described himself in Matthew 11!
TO THE OVERSIGHT BOARD
…Whenever new board members are called to serve, have one-on-one breakfast and see where they work if possible. They come to see where you work every Sunday.
…Start your part in every board meeting with appreciation to the board in general and also to one or two in particular if there are ways of service or love that jump out.
…Personal birthday wishes and appreciation!
…Step in with care when arguments start to enflame! “This is not the way we differ…”
WITH THE STAFF
…MBWA — Manage By Walking Around at least once a week with a large staff, and more with small, just to see how they are doing and thank and be personal.
…Make sure staff meetings include eating and fun regularly.
…Use the seven-minute assignment for each person — you go first — “The Ten Most Important and Influential Decisions or Events of My Life”! Guaranteed that all will know each other better afterwards, and also see why we are the way we are!
…Again, recognize birthdays with appreciation!
…When appropriate, have occasional breakfast or coffee with those who report to you, without talking about church business. Just listen to how they are!
… Do not allow emotional arguments on text or email — must to eye to eye!
WITH THE PUBLIC AT LARGE AND WHEN LEADING IN PUBLIC
… Do not quote yourself.
… Remember that your manner and kindness are more important than your position.
… Do not tell how big your church is if it is big.