From the Pastor’s Heart...
God, Where Are You Working?
When one preaches only a half-hour, usually there is much, much more from the sermon that can be discussed and revisited. Not long ago I preached a sermon that I believe bears revisiting and discussing further. The sermon dealt with the vision and focus that God gives us for ministry. I briefly (from my perspective) talked about the vision and focus for ministry that God gives to us personally and corporately. I don't think it is an overstatement to say that God enlist every child of His for service. James so clearly talks about our faith and our works. It seems the two are inseparable in that true faith will produce fruit and that is seen in our works. So if God really does enlist His children to works and good deeds, what ministry has He tapped you on the shoulder to fulfill? Now I know that we don't need to become busier people. But it seems that as individuals and as a church we must continue to ask God, "Where are you busy and where can we join in?" It is not always an easy task to discern. And as a church, there may be several ministries that God is leading in and those visions may change over time. But whatever the case, the ministries should be defined and be given priority for prayer and support. When they are less defined, we lose passion and zeal to specifically see God working. When this happens we tend to stagnate and exist rather than thrive. Seeing God at work and joining in or having God give us a vision for a task is such a blessing. I think of Paul and the ministry that God called him to, taking the Gospel to the Gentiles. He had a vision and a focus for ministry. But it was a supernatural ministry that was led by God with a love for Jesus. It seems that there is one key to our prayer of wanting to join God at work, and that is abiding in Christ. As we abide in Christ He will surely lead us in daily tasks as well as long term ministry. Surely if we abide in Him He will produce in our heart desires that are from Him.
With that in mind, as we abide in Christ, may we will diligence seek to know what God has called us to this day as a church and as individuals. May that ministry, task or vision be defined clear enough that we can act and then pray specifically for God to intervene in wonderful and miraculous ways. Then stand and see the glory of God. This is His testimony!
God, where are you working today and where can I join you?
Pastor Tim Kennell