MINISTRY IS NOT IN THE SPOTLIGHT

Christian ministry is not in the stage upon which we showcase our talents for a watching audience. It is not in the use of a microphone to amplify our voices in making an egocentric impression on our hearers. We are not called to be performers. If God were in need of celebrities to further his purpose on earth, Hollywood would be His catchment area. Ministry is essentially about service. To minister is to serve, a calling common to all Christians. We are called to serve God's interests and invariably serve the needs of people.

Ministry is not also exclusive to pastors, evangelists, prophets, and the likes of pulpit ministers, nor is it confined to church activities or relationships; it permeates every part of our lives, including our jobs and our daily activities.  The life of every believer should be one of full-time Christian ministry, whether carried out as a church worker or leader, or a parent, a doctor, a storekeeper, a school teacher, a student, or any other life endeavor.

What is key is that "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, [or for yourselves], since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving" (Col 3:23-24).

So, friend, step away from your microphone, step down from the stage, take your eyes off the crowd, close your ears to the applause, stop being captivated by yourself, get on the 'service' lane and let your work and life glorify God.

The Hebrew word for work, Avodah, aptly captures the concept of ministry, it is used not only for labor, but also for worship and service. Everything we do is to be done in service to God, with an attitude of worship.