A Royal Priesthood
The Joy Of Sharing His Life
“But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession…” 1 Peter 2:9
Wasn’t That The Minister’s Job?
For a few years after coming to Christ, I wondered where I fit in ministry.
Growing up Methodist, I understood that we had a minister, and ministering was his job. He was already doing it full-time.
The Invitation Included Us
While serving on a renewal weekend, I heard a talk called “The Ministry of All Believers,” based on 1 Peter 2. It was one of the most exciting discoveries of my walk with Jesus.
Peter was talking about us!
We were His people, recipients of His mercy, invited to share His goodness.
I didn't have to become someone else to have a place in what God was doing.
Beloved Before Useful
But I can take that invitation and turn it into another way to measure myself. Am I helping enough people? Is the ministry growing? Does anyone need me?
Ministry flows from your identity; your identity doesn’t come from your ministry.
The Father doesn't love the successful version of us more than the weary one.
We minister because we are His beloved, not to convince ourselves that we are.
Whoever You Are With
Ministry is whoever you are with.
Always.
Over coffee, that may mean listening without rushing or offering mercy because we know how much we've needed it ourselves.
Abba has planted us among people we get to know and love. As His kindness finds expression through our own voices and lives, others can begin discovering the Father who has welcomed us so generously.
Reflection
Where am I confusing being useful with being loved?
Who is already sharing life with me?
How might they experience Abba's kindness through me?