The Power of Presence: Why Shepherding Matters More Than Size

In a world that celebrates platforms, numbers, and viral influence, it’s easy for small church pastors to feel like they’re not enough. When the spotlight often shines on mega-churches and celebrity leaders, those serving in smaller congregations can start to wonder if their efforts matter.

Let me assure you—they do. In fact, your presence may be one of the most powerful tools God uses in the lives of your people.

When I first entered pastoral ministry more than 40 years ago, I thought God was eventually going to put me into a large, thriving congregation with hundreds of parishioners, a good sized staff and many tools to be effective in the mission of the Church.  Little did I know then that I was being called to be a small church, bi-vocational pastor my entire ministry. I’ll admit there were times that I let that calling make me feel like a second-class pastor. And I’ll also admit that there were colleagues that seemed to like making me feel that way.

Shepherding Is a Ministry of Presence

The Bible never defines pastoral leadership by platform, production, or popularity. It defines it by shepherding. And shepherds live with the sheep.

Jesus Himself said, “I am the good shepherd. I know my sheep and my sheep know me” (John 10:14). That kind of knowledge—the kind that builds trust, discipleship, and spiritual growth—can only happen through consistent presence.

In smaller churches, you don’t just preach to your people. You know them. You eat meals with them. You pray over hospital beds, celebrate births, grieve losses, and show up for the everyday moments of life. That’s not a limitation. That’s a sacred gift.

The Ministry of Showing Up

Think about the moments that matter most in your congregation’s life:

• When someone’s waiting for test results

• When a couple sits on the edge of divorce

• When a teen struggles with identity or purpose

• When an elderly member needs help setting up a new phone or getting to an appointment

In a larger setting, these moments can get lost in the shuffle. But in a small church, you can show up—and when you do, your presence often speaks louder than any sermon.

Your presence says, “You are not alone. Your life matters. God sees you—and so do I.”

Redefining Influence

John Maxwell always says that “Leadership is influence, nothing more, nothing less.”  Don't underestimate the influence you carry in a smaller setting. It’s deeply relational. It’s one-to-one, not one-to-thousands. And it often results in long-term transformation, not just momentary inspiration.

You don’t need a bigger platform to have greater impact. You need to lean into the ministry of presence—to walk slowly through the crowd, listen well, love deeply, and lead with care.

Practical Ways to Practice the Power of Presence

Here are a few simple ways to live this out in your current ministry:

• Be accessible. Keep office hours, return calls, and be visible in the community. Your accessibility builds trust.

• Make house calls. An unexpected visit or check-in can lift someone’s spirit more than you realize.

• Attend community events. Show up at ball games, school concerts, and local gatherings—not just as a pastor, but as a neighbor.

• Celebrate the small stuff. A handwritten note, birthday call, or encouraging text makes a big impact.

• Prioritize presence over performance. Not every sermon needs to be perfect, but every person needs to be pastored.

You Are Enough

Pastor, don’t minimize your presence. Your ministry may not make headlines, but it is making a difference. The church you serve—no matter how small—is a sacred trust. And your willingness to walk closely with your people is a powerful, Christlike example of leadership.

In a world that celebrates charisma, God still honors character.

In a culture obsessed with crowds, He still works through closeness.

Never forget: your presence is powerful—because God is present in you.

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