How Important are You?

Teresa of Avila (1515-1482) once gave very wise counsel to her brother who wanted to serve in ministry.  She said: "I am surprised to see you so very desirous of serving God, and yet that you find such a light cross so very heavy."  This is a great lesson for all Christians who desire to serve God, but sit back and wait for the big applaudable opportunities to come our way.  It takes 100 pennies to make a dollar, and not one penny less will a dollar make.  A penny by itself seems valueless, but when you put them all together they have the same value as a dollar bill.  So too does it take every form of work to be a viable ministry before God; and in God's eyes each job carries the same value.

Sometimes we need to respond as Isaiah did when God said, "Whom shall I send?  And who will go for us?"  Isaiah said, "Here am I.  Send me."  Isaiah was the type of guy who was willing to step forward whenever God was looking for a volunteer.

I remember some men talking lightheartedly about a pastor who had been the minister of the church many years ago.  He wasn't a very good preacher - laughter  He couldn't tell jokes - more laughter.  He wasn't very good at leading bible study - groans and laughter  All of the men chuckled as they reminisced.  Then one of them became very serious.  "He was one of the best pastors this church has ever had."  Why?  Because he was a great example of someone who would volunteer.

He was unconditional pitching in.  He would show up at a persons house when they were digging up the septic system (all the digging was done by hand in those days).  He helped shingle roofs and board up a buildings.  One time he even spent three weeks getting in a farmers hay because the farmer was sick in bed.  He was loved by everyone for his willingness to help whenever help is needed.

Most ministers put great value in there preaching and teaching of the Bible.  But how much value do you put into working shoulder to shoulder with those in your congregation?  These might be considered the most menial of jobs; but in Kingdom work no work is valued over another.  Whenever God calls, we should be ready to lend a hand, whatever the task may be, and be part of His glory.

Blessings,

-Leo