Doing something for the first time -- blogging on my Blackberry. So reminds of Rev Run ending his made-for-MTV show when he would summarize the episode then type on his phone, "..God is love. Rev Run" while soaking in his tub.
Well, I'm not in a tub but do find myself soaking in a few things.
Earlier today I was working on my Bible Study notes and questions when I was stopped in my tracks. The apostle Paul while on his second missionary journey (traveling from Thessalonica to Berea then finally Corinth) didn't "pass the plate" to fund his ministry. Instead he didn't want to burden to the new converts, instead he worked along side of them. He preached in his leisure time!
What struck me was that this simple act of belonging was just part of Paul gaining respect in the first century church. Many ministry-minded souls long for the day when they will be paid to do ministry and leave the rat race behind.
Unfotunately, there are more and more church staff including pastors leaving the ministry because of unmet expectations. They limp away wondering if God could plant them in other places besides a pulpit. My question is what do they do for recreation? Is God even in the middle of that?
This year I am walking towards a dream of mine that is outlined by the Proverbs 31 wife.
Proverbs 31: 17 - 18 (New Living Translation) -- She is energetic and strong, a hard worker. She makes sure her dealings are profitable; her lamp burns late into the night.
You see, I've always longed to have a side business that would be a blessing to my family. I've tried different things in the past but nothing took off the way I envisioned. Today I saw how far off I was.
My challenge is that in all that I do and especially in my downtime will now honor God. No more is there His time vs. my time. My writing, sculpting, photography, collecting -- my "brand" -- will focus back to the One who created me the way He did.
Faith without works is dead. Likewise, work without faith is meaningless.
Ephesians 3:19 - 21 (Contemporary English Version) -- I want you to know all about Christ's love, although it is too wonderful to be measured. Then your lives will be filled with all that God is. I pray that Christ Jesus and the church will forever bring praise to God. His power at work in us can do far more than we dare ask or imagine. Amen.
