Some notes from a talk by Andrew Jones:
He started off by reflecting on how the Kingdom of God is like yeast (Matthew 13:33). As yeast is worked throughout the dough the yeast cells divide, yet it's impact is what makes the bread rise and grow. This cell division is so small, microscopic, invisible to the human eye. For us, as members of God's church, must not our actions also be almost secret and meek rather than proud and showy, just as Jesus warns against in Matthew 16:6 - also talking about yeast.
Also a great definition of ministry:
1. giving gifts
2. telling stories
3. throwing parties
4. making friends
Darryl this is a wonderful post! First on the yeast illustration- so much of ministry by Christians actually occurs far away from the direct connection to the church. It is in the every day lives of the members living their faith without at times even realizing that they are doing God's ministry. Yeast- the invisible yet truly necessary ingredient for the bread of life.
And the 4 parts of the definition- definitely YES!
Thanks for your postings!
"Giving gifts, telling stories, throwing parties, making friends."... Such a small vision. Such a sad story, in the end, my friend.
And what of praise and worship, first giving unto Him.
And what of service and sacrifice unto them in His name.
Frankly speaking, I think we throw enough parties, give enough gifts, tell enough stories and make enough friends. What we don't do enough is worship, praise, pray and serve.
Now that is a ministry!
Paul:
Those four actions seem to show up a lot in the ministry of Jesus. I think they are acts of worship as well, aren't they?
Acts of lesser worship, maybe. Depends on the context.