December 2017
Kingdom. Diverse ministries, but the same
Lord. says, "Who are you to judge someone else's
servant? "
Each of these people, who are a part of
the unfolding of events surrounding the
first Christmas, had a different role. Yet,
each of them were vital and indispensible.
Do we Christians, have the maturity to
value all ministries equally? Or do we crave
for the pulpit when God asks us to keep our
home open for the lonely? Within our own
organisations, are we envious of those who
get a more visible, high profile role to play!
Do we grade people based on the size of the
crowd they preach to? A simple auto driver,
who gives the word and a tract to his
passenger, is just as valuable in the
kingdom of God as a fiery preacher! Equality is different from 'being the
same.' The best example is that of man and
woman. Both are of equal worth before God
but they are not made in the same way; i.e.
they have different roles and different
functions. In the same way, there are
diverse ways of worship and service, but the
same Lord is glorified through it all and are
of equal value before Him.
Maybe, we have a quiet ministry and
are proud that we don't publicise our work.
Even this can lead to self-righteousness
and a condemning attitude towards others
who don't toe the same line. Spiritual pride
is very dangerous and even very faithful
ministers can fall a prey to it. If there is any
attitude of condemnation because someone
doesn't fast as much as we do, wake up as
early for prayer as we do, give as much ...we
need to check ourselves. The Bible bluntly
This Christmas season, as we re-live
the glorious event through numerous
celebrations, programmes, carol singing
and family gatherings, may we be
conscious to appreciate diverse ministries!
May we go that extra mile to appreciate
someone who serves God in a way different
from ours! If, like the shepherds, you are
called to go forth and proclaim the word, go
into the lanes and by lanes, joyfully
announcing Christ's birth. But do not look
down on an Elizabeth who stays at home to
raise a John. If God has blessed your efforts
in the mission field, remember that it could
be an answer to the prayer of faithful,
unknown intercessors in some distant
land. Paul's call to the body of believers in I
Corinthians 12 becomes the clarion call to
each of us this Christmas.
What is your calling? Whatever is the unique
service you are called to do, let it be done with
excellence and humility. "There are different
kinds of service, but the same Lord. There are
different kinds of working, but the same God
works all of them in all men" (I Cor 12:5,6).
Bearing this in mind, let us pray that God would
be glorified through men and women who would
not conform to the stereotype, but serve Him in
diverse ways to reach people with varied needs.
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