In my faith tradition we are very intentional about saying that every lay person has a vocation in which he or she can serve God. Being a pastor or missionary is not stated as being the highest calling to which one can aspire.
Nevertheless, holding this leadership office does carry special weight and responsibility that should not be taken lightly. Psalm 20 gives us words we can use to support and pray for our pastor(s). The parts I have adjusted or paraphrased will be found in italics. This translation of Psalm 20 comes from the New International Version of the Bible.
May the LORD answer you when you are in distress; may the name of the God of Jacob protect you when you are overwhelmed by your office.
May he send you help from the sanctuary and grant you support from Zion. May he remember all your acts of service and accept your prayers offered in faith.
May he give you the desire of your heart and make all your plans for the well-being of your flock succeed.
We will shout for joy when you rally us against injustice and will lift up our banners in the name of our God. May the LORD grant all your requests.
Now I know that the LORD saves his anointed, those he has called to special work; he answers him from his holy heaven with the saving power of his right hand.
Some trust in wealth and some in their good reputation, but we trust in the name of the LORD our God.
Idols and their worshipers are brought to their knees and fall, but in Christ we rise up and stand firm.
O LORD, sustain and uphold our pastor! Answer us when we call in Jesus' name! Amen.
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