In general, a shepherd refers to a keeper of sheep. This person tends, feeds, and guards the flock he oversees. In the Old Testament, a shepherd designates not only a person who herds sheep but also community leaders (2 Samuel 5:2) and even God Himself (Psalm 23:1). The New Testament has several references to shepherds as well. The shepherds were among the first to know about the birth of Jesus (Luke 2:8-20). The shepherds and sheep analogy is used by Jesus to illustrate Christ’s relationship with His followers (Hebrews 13:20). Jesus refers to Himself as the “good shepherd” (John 10:7-18). Peter is told to feed sheep (John 21:1), and Paul understood the church to be a flock of sheep with shepherds (Acts 20:28). The Latin word for “shepherd” is transliterated as “pastor.” 

In our culture, the world uses the term “pastor” to designate the role of the preacher, minister, and evangelist. However, the Biblical term “pastor” is in reference to those selected elder men who meet the qualifications as outlined in 1 Timothy and Titus and oversee the spiritual lives of local congregations. Biblically the preacher is not a pastor, but a pastor can be a preacher.

Over the last few years, October has been designated as “Pastor Appreciation Month”. Therefore, I’m gonna take this opportunity to appreciate our pastors and their work to oversee, admonish, feed, encourage, and promote a healthy church. Here at North Heights, we have eight men who tirelessly work to accomplish their duties as pastors, and for that, I am thankful. 

Keith Davis – Thank you for always looking for personal ways to lift others up. You are an encourager and a source of strength in our church family. You show us what it means to go through difficulties and remain faithful and strong. You lead the way in faithfulness. 

Don Gregory – Thank you for always providing our church with a sense of steady calmness. You make me smile, laugh, and feel comfortable in difficult situations. You are always willing and ready to help with anything, which makes us a stronger church. You lead the way in stability. 

Gaylan Hayes – Thank you for always seeking to see every side of a problem and how it might affect not only those involved but those who will see it from a different perspective. You are a strong leader with a deep conviction to do what is right and help those in need. You lead the way in determination. 

Gary Rhodes – Thank you for always being so positive. I know that if I am feeling down, a few minutes with you will make me feel better. You lift and encourage everyone matter who they are. You have a wonderful reputation in this community, and everyone loves Coach Rhodes. You lead the way in encouragement. 

Mark Skelton – Thank you for always taking your responsibilities seriously. You don’t take this task of leading a congregation lightly. You know that it is a tough job, and there are days that it seems overwhelming. You have stayed the course. You lead the way in sober-mindedness. 

Tommy Wammack – Thank you for always seeing the value in sticking to the truth and being biblically sound. You study, and therefore you know. Your wisdom bleeds over to others around you. I appreciate that no matter what needs to be done, you are willing to do it. You lead the way in obedience to God. 

Frank Wells – Thank you for always showing your emotions. I know that you sometimes feel that some may take you as being too harsh, but in reality, I have seen your softer side, and the emotion you display in your service to God motivates others to be emotional too. It’s a good thing. You lead the way in passion.

Bill Whittington – Thank you for always being intentional and careful with your words. You are truly quick to hear, slow to speak, and slow to anger. Every word you choose has been thought about, and it is shown. Your wisdom and desire to make a difference in others’ lives have encouraged others to be more like you as you are of Christ. You lead the way in being an example. 

Dear church family, 

Please take this month to appreciate those men who serve as our pastors. Appreciate their dedication to the Lord, His kingdom, and our church family here at NHCOC.  Tell them face to face, send them a card, and give them a call. Let them know you love them. 

I love you, 

Alex Mills 

Preacher