“The Gold Watch Syndrome”
1 Thess 5:11-15 (12)
Rodney Dangerfield became famous with his line, “I can’t get no respect.” Respect and appreciation are often hard for some to give. They are both commodities that must be earned. Even when they are due, payment is often neglected.
You may be like Old Eb who was, like many of his breed, rather stingy with words. He said very little, and then rather grudgingly. One evening he was sitting on the front steps with his wife. The long day’s work, the good supper, and the peaceful sights and sounds of dusk must have softened him up. He cleared his throat took a deep breath and said, “When I think of what you’ve meant to me all these years, Judith, sometimes it’s almost more than I can stand not to tell you.”
Spiritual leaders are often taken for granted. They sometimes feel like the man who at his retirement dinner received the phone number for the correct time and temperature because the company couldn’t afford to give him a gold watch. Paul reminds us that we are to show our appreciation for those who are responsible for our souls. (vss. 12, 13) It is not to be only shown on Pastor Appreciation Day or at retirement but throughout the year. Praying for our leaders daily will help deepen our appreciation for them. Telling them that we notice the good job they are doing will strengthen their resolve to continue to do their best.
