Jesse Reimers

Pastor, I know that the weight of ministry can feel heavy at times. You have been called to shepherd a small flock, and at times, that can feel isolating. Perhaps you're facing challenges that no one else seems to understand. Maybe you're discouraged by the slow pace of growth, or maybe you're feeling weary from all the demands that never seem to end. But I want you to hear this— God sees you , and He has called you to this work for a reason . The calling on your life is significant, and the work you are doing is not in vain. This post is for you. It's a reminder that you are not alone in this journey, and the God who called you will equip you and sustain you. I want to encourage you—spiritually, practically, and personally—to keep fighting the good fight. You are making an eternal difference. Don’t grow weary in well-doing, and don't give up. Keep pressing forward with the hope and strength that comes only from God. 1. God Knows You Are Faithful, Even in the Small ...

Advent Theme - Joy “I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.”  – Luke 2:10 (NIV) Joy is the third theme of Advent, and it’s one of the most powerful aspects of the Christmas story. The announcement of Jesus' birth to the shepherds was a declaration of joy for all people. In a world often marked by sorrow, Jesus' arrival brought a deep, unshakable joy—a joy that transcends circumstances and fills the hearts of believers. For small church pastors, joy can sometimes feel elusive in the face of struggles and challenges. Yet, Advent calls us to rejoice, not in the absence of difficulties, but in the presence of Christ. His coming brings a joy that is both personal and communal, and it is to be shared with others. Celebrating Joy: Light the third Advent candle (the Joy candle) and invite your congregation to reflect on the joy that Christ brings into their lives. Preach about the joy found in Christ and encourage your congregation to share that joy with oth...

As the Christmas season approaches, the church enters a season of preparation and reflection called Advent. For pastors of small churches, Advent offers an opportunity to reflect deeply on the anticipation of the coming of Jesus Christ. The four themes of Advent—Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love—serve as a reminder of the promises fulfilled through Jesus’ birth and the hope we continue to await in His second coming. This two-week series will explore the significance of Advent, its history, traditions, and practical ways to celebrate these themes in your church, regardless of denomination or background. Advent: History and Meaning Advent, meaning “ arrival ” or “ coming ,” is the season observed in the Christian liturgical calendar that begins on the fourth Sunday before Christmas and culminates on Christmas Eve. The season traditionally marks a time of waiting, anticipation, and preparation for the arrival of Jesus. Historically, Advent was a time of fasting and penance in the early church, r...

"The more we value our people, the more they’ll value the work." – Ken Blanchard and Spencer Johnson, The One Minute Manager The third secret of The One Minute Manager is One Minute Reprimands. Although this may sound negative at first, it’s actually a vital component of leadership, helping to address issues or behaviors that need correction in a constructive and loving way. As pastors, we are responsible for guiding our congregations and teams toward growth, and part of this involves confronting missteps in a way that leads to improvement rather than discouragement. The key here is to separate the person from the behavior and ensure the reprimand is focused, brief, and corrective, not punitive. Why One Minute Reprimands Matter: Blanchard and Johnson explain that One Minute Reprimands help keep people accountable, ensuring that they understand the impact of their actions without feeling disrespected or discouraged. This principle is particularly valuable in small churches, ...

"The best minute I spend is the one I spend encouraging someone." – Ken Blanchard and Spencer Johnson, The One Minute Manager The second secret of The One Minute Manager is One Minute Praisings. This principle emphasizes the importance of quick, focused praise to reinforce positive behavior and actions. As pastors, it’s easy to focus on the things that need improvement, but One Minute Praisings encourages us to celebrate and affirm what is already going well. In a small church, where resources may be limited, recognizing and celebrating the efforts of your team can go a long way in boosting morale and encouraging continued growth. Why One Minute Praisings Matter: In the book, Blanchard and Johnson explain, “The best minute I spend is the one I spend encouraging someone.” This short, intentional praise helps people feel valued and motivated, which is crucial in a church environment. When volunteers, staff, or congregants receive praise for their contributions, it reinforces ...