Most people in secular vocations work an average of 40 hours per week. Most people only see the pastor for an hour on Sunday and think that's all he does. Most pastors spend 10-15 hours crafting each individual sermon. Sure, it can be done in less time, but it's not sustainable over the long-term. There are business meetings, hospital and prison visits, funerals, weddings. counseling sessions, professional development training, and a host of other things that take up the pastor's time. During a crisis, the pastor is often the first person called. I know one pastor who got up at 3 am one morning to go his part-time job and then stayed up until midnight to counsel a couple. I know another pastor who officiate six funerals in one week. Many pastors average 55-65 hours of work each week.
Many churches prefer for the pastor to have a master's degree in divinity. That's the preachers equivalent of a law degree. I saw an ad from one church that required this and they were only willing to pay the pastor $25,000 a year. I have yet to meet a lawyer who would work at that rate.
Take a few minutes each Sunday this month to let your pastor know how much you appreciate his hard work for the church. Pray for him and let him know you are praying for him. Ask him if there is anything you can do at church to ease his burden. Encourage him and let him know he is loved.