"Let us not lose heart in doing good, for in due time we will reap if we do not grow weary. So then, while we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, and especially to those who are of the household of the faith." (Galatians 6:9-10)
Well, I got to thinking about this after listening to Pastor Tim on Sunday. Then when we were sharing in staff meeting, I started thinking more about it. I have been a Christian since I was 16, have been attending Grace Church since 1970 and have volunteered in many areas for many years. For the past few years, I have been slowly cutting down on some of the ministry work I've been doing, especially because I have had some health issues. As I look around and think about people who are in ministry around the church, I realize there are others older than me and in more physical stress than me - and they are still serving. I have come to the mindset that "I'm tired and just want to rest a little while before I get back into something." Yes, my leg hurts all the time and physical therapy is helping, but it's a long road still till it will be more normal.
My other excuse has been that I want to do ministry with my husband. There is absolutely nothing wrong with that! But he will be losing his job soon and until then, he and I have different schedules. He hasn't been able to work with youth for awhile because of his schedule and he has missed that. He has had eye problems and has also missed driving the bus. But those are not MY problems. My knee hurts, yes, but I can still walk. Thank you, Lord, for that. So, what's stopping me? I AM tired. Maybe it's something medical, which I will check out, but until then, I think I'm actually taking the easy way out and being lazy.
Women's Bible Study is coming up. I decided I didn't want to "start something I can't finish" because of the uncertainty of where Dan will possibly be getting a job after he is laid off from American Eagle. It also meant that I will still have Thursday mornings off to just take it easy before going into work at 1:00. Well, after the prodding of my friends, I decided to go ahead and start Bible Study. Maybe if I start, we'll end up staying in SLO and I can finish what I started. But, even if I don't stay here, how could I even think that missing Bible Study was even an option? I need it, and it's a great time of encouragement, whether I'm being encouraged or I somehow can encourage someone else.
So, all that being said, I just want to say, that there is no excuse under the sun that should be acceptable for not being in ministry. Remember - "EVERYBODY PLAYS!" There is always a way to do it if you really pray about it and seek the Lord's timing. He will show you what you can do, should do and maybe should wait to do. Think about what you like to do - work with children, sing, cook, etc. - and then find a place to use those talents/gifts. You will truly be blessed and you will also be a blessing.
