When United Airlines had a paying customer forcibly removed from a flight so one of its own crew members could fly in his place, the news and accompanying video went viral. How could a 69-year-old doctor returning from vacation end up bloodied and being dragged off the aircraft? Why did the airline wait until all of the passengers had boarded before trying to find room for their crew members? Couldn’t they plan ahead? And was race a factor in the mistreatment of Dr. Dao? Can you imagine a 69-year-old white doctor being similarly dragged off the plane?

When United Airlines had a paying customer forcibly removed from a flight so one of its own crew members could fly in his place, the news and accompanying video went viral. How could a 69-year-old doctor returning from vacation end up bloodied and being dragged off the aircraft? Why did the airline wait until all of the passengers had boarded before trying to find room for their crew members? Couldn’t they plan ahead? And was race a factor in the mistreatment of Dr. Dao? Can you imagine a 69-year-old white doctor being similarly dragged off the plane?

When I first accepted the call to serve as an interim pastor, I had no specific pastoral training or experience. I was a writer and college instructor, had the equivalent of a master’s degree in theological studies, some practical experience as a speaker and worship leader–but mainly I had lots of questions.

I don’t know who first declared October as Pastor Appreciation Month, but it’s never been a special focus for my congregation. I don’t get showered with Pastor Appreciation cards. No one plans a special worship celebration acknowledging my ministry and leadership. My church has never taken out a full-page ad in the local newspaper with my photo and an expression of their thanks as suggested by one LifeWay blogger–and good thing they haven’t, since I’d feel totally embarrassed!

When I was first called into pastoral ministry, both the church and I knew enough…

If you look at your own denomination’s classified ads or at pastor search sites online,…