Add Ministering To Our Thanks

1 Peter 4:11 – If anyone speaks, he should do it as one speaking the very words of God. If anyone serves, he should do it with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen. (NIV)

Several years ago, I noticed there was a Clergy Appreciation Day. Considering that we sleep for about 8 hours a day, the remaining 16 hours aren't very long to extend one's thanks to someone who is virtually on call 24 hours a day apart from when they take a holiday. For those who choose to travel either with, or within range of, a computer, even then they are accessible.

This year it seems the Day has been extended to a weekend: October 7th and 8th.

Throughout our lives, we come across many who administer the work of the Lord in many different situations: regular ministers attached to churches; chaplains in prisons, hospitals and in the armed forces; ministers who have no homes, who minister to the homeless, the poor, sick, needy and discarded. They come when we call by phone, in person or through e-mail.

They shoulder our sorrows, worries and cares; guide us when sometimes, even for them, it is tough; and try to balance the weight of the administration against the wishes of the congregation, sometimes satisfying neither.

As we approach another Thanksgiving Weekend, let us add "ministering" to our "thanks".

Prayer: Lord, may we remember with thanks those who carry your word to everyone in all walks of life. Help us to do so, not just on a designated day or weekend, but may we add ministering in our daily thanks. In your name we pray. Amen.

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