Serving the High Plains
Serving the High Plains
Religion Columnist
I was talking with a couple of ladies about things we are no longer able to do including mowing the lawn. We were taking a break at Vacation Bible School, but didn’t have the time or energy to list all of things we once did. Still we are willing to do whatever we can no matter how big or how small.
I am not really a worker at VBS, but more of a go-for available to do whatever is asked of me. It is such a joy to be included, to work for the Lord when I was unable to do so for many years. What a privilege!
Do we consider it a privilege to do things for the Lord or do we think we can’t be used? In Ephesians 4:11-12 it says, “And he gave some, apostles, and some, prophets, and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ”. Sometimes we think these are the main callings set aside for special people and are more important than others.
It takes all of us to be the body of Christ. This is explained more clearly in I Corinthians 12:12, “For as the body is one, and hath many members…” It goes on to tell that the foot isn’t more important than the hand, but all parts of the body are essential to work together as one for Jesus Christ.
For the past several weeks I have watched the series “A.D.” on Sunday nights. It tells the story from the book of Acts in the Bible about the early church after the resurrection of Jesus. The story of Saul is particularly interesting as the actor played him perfectly. You despised Saul from the very beginning even knowing that he was dramatically converted on the road to Damascus.
God knew Saul whose name was changed to Paul would be his messenger to the Gentiles even when everyone, including Peter doubted it could ever happen. However he and all of the apostles were proven wrong when Paul began his great ministry, He never gave up despite the great trials he faced that eventually led to his death.
The Lord has a ministry for each and every one of us and will equip us to do His will. I am a prime example of how the Lord equipped me to write this column with no formal training. I am still in awe each and every time I sit down to write, wondering how the Lord can use someone as insignificant as me.
Ministries vary from person to person. I once knew a man who went to church early every Sunday to sharpen the pencils in the pews. For those who used those pencils, it was very helpful. Others might have used their age as an excuse to not do anything, but this man did what he could.
It isn’t up to us to say if what we do for the kingdom of God is helpful or needed. Each and everything we do for the Lord is being an active part of the body. The only thing we have to do is be willing. Age is no excuse as God finds the perfect ministry for each of us. What has God called you to do for Him whether it is out in the community or within the walls of the church? Are you listening to His calling?
Debra Whittington is a longtime resident of Tucumcari. Contact her at: [email protected]