(RETURN TO REFLECTIONS)
Ministry Ministry means to serve, to wait on, or to attend. The terms “server” and “minister” can be used interchangeably. Every believer in Jesus is called by God to minister to others. What a privilege to serve others in Jesus’ name. There are many ways and types of ministry. Be challenged to move out of your comfort zone and into new areas of ministry. “Without faith it is impossible to please God (Hebrews 11:6).” Follow Jesus, who did ministry in the homes of people, in the streets, in the market, and to the poor and rejected. God desires to do great works through us (see John 14:12-14). The treasure of the Lord Jesus Christ is within. “But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us (2 Corinthians 4:7).” Jesus is powerfully within us jars of clay! Watering Your Own Soul “The generous soul will be made rich, and he who waters will also be watered himself (Proverbs 11:25).” To get, we must give; to accumulate, we must scatter; to be happy, we must make others happy; to be strong spiritually, we must seek the spiritual good of others. We have latent gifts and talents that are brought to light by exercise. Our strength for service is hidden from ourselves, until we venture forth to reach out to others. We don’t know the compassion we have until we dry the tears of someone. We gain instruction when we teach others. In our service to others, we are taught the way of the Lord and receive deeper insight into truth. Our own comfort is increased by working for others. Give then, and it shall be given to you; good measure, pressed down, and running over. As an offering, Pastor Jay T. Francis 6/13