The Todd Blog

“We must decide where we want our ministry to count – in the momentary applause of popular recognition or in the reproduction of our lives in a few chosen people who will carry on the work after we are gone.” - Robert Coleman

My friend Jana Snyder sent me an article which contained the above quote. Much like the article’s author, I was “stopped in my tracks” as I read it. It served as a well-timed slap in the face.

I have always struggled a bit with pride and this pride extends to the types of ministry that I enjoy partaking in. Public speaking, organizing events, being a youth sponsor and creating meaningful (depending upon whom you ask) times of worship come immediately to mind as ministries that are important and can glorify God, but certainly contain opportunities for me to gain some glory as well.

In ministry areas such as service, visitation and grounds-keeping I’m significantly less inclined to volunteer. “That’s not where my gifts and passions lie,” I tell myself. “You’re much more suited for ‘public’ ministry.” While the first statement may be true, the second is nothing but a lie. I’m suited for ministry in any context, wherever God desires to place me. I’m not commanded to pick and choose where I will serve, I’m called to serve where I am, how I can.

I hope that as I continue to discover new opportunities God has placed before me that I won’t shy away from those that won’t earn me some acknowledgment or appreciation. I hope that I can learn to develop a “kingdom” view that evaluates opportunities based upon their long-term impact rather than whatever short-term benefit I might receive.