Ministry in the Making

Daily Gratitude Year 7 - Day 83: Today, I am grateful for the ministry in front of us. 

What is your ministry? Most of us have one, even if we don't recognize call it a ministry. Sometimes, the Lord leads us into a ministry we did not anticipate, but ihe uses our gifts to bear fruit. What appears to be an "accidental ministry" may be the hand of God revealing his purpose and his plan.... in His time.

"Ministry could be simply about loving the person in front of you." -Heidi Baker

We all need love. Some need it more than others, and they are likely the prickly ones in our paths. 

We have the sweetest gal in our congregation. Her name is Grace. She often bakes up some cookies and brings them to church without no recipient in mind. Sometime, over the course of Sunday School and worship, Gracie feels the nudge of the Spirit directing her gift. It is the sweetest thing. Literally and figuratively. Her baked treats are her ministry. My neighbor, Susie Ackerman, bakes and blesses people unexpectedly all over our neighborhood and beyond. Her chocolate chip cookies are about as famous as the Toll House version. It, too, is a ministry. 

I know a sweet gal back home that makes sure no one goes for chemotherapy alone. What a beautiful way to "play in the key of Jesus", as Bob Goff put it. Marcia's smile and warmth make a rough day more bearable. 

There is a young lady who greets at Wal-Mart in our town who is considered "disabled" by society, yet her greeting and genuine caring about others shine brighter than her intellectual limitations. She is precious, as she serves God in a Walmart vest. 

Therefore, having this ministry by the mercy of God, we do not lose heart. But we have renounced disgraceful, underhanded ways. We refuse to practice cunning or to tamper with God's word, but by the open statement of the truth we would commend ourselves to everyone's conscience in the sight of God." - 2 Corinthians 4:1-2

Look at where your passions are found. How can you use it to love others and share the gospel? Don't lose heart. Trust God's word, it doesn't need amending. Do what is good, loving, kind and right in the eyes of God. Watch him stir your heart and provide a ministry that fits just right. 

Today, I am grateful for the ministry in front of us.