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I grew up with the belief that pastors, elders, and other church leaders had a spiritually significant calling to ministry that was separate and more meaningful than the work most of us would end up doing. I was likely going to work a regular 9 to 5, and THEY were called to ministry... this phrase carried weight in the context that I was raised in. I had always served in the church in small ways, but that seemed insignificant in comparison; I had mistakenly believed that ministry was about platform, position, and preaching.
I would often say to people that, “I am called to support the work of ministry that others were doing.” Which is wonderful, and noble, and true - but it’s definitely not the whole truth. I am called to use my unique gifts - we all are (yup, YOU too) ... it just might be expressed differently than I was able to imagine ministry could look.
When I take time out of a demanding work week to have a conversation with a colleague about the fears and frustrations she has releasing control over her adult daughter’s dating life - Instead of offering solutions and advice, I’m reaching for curiosity and validation... that is my ministry.
When I am able to let a close family member process the hard year of personal loss they’ve had, and I don’t bypass their pain - instead I ask them what it’s cost them and I give space for grief... that is my ministry.
When I serve and encourage my own spouse in ways that encourages her to step more fully into who God has created her to be, being a safe sanctuary and celebratory support... that is my ministry.
Maybe you've also believed that "ministry" could only happen in pulpits or on platforms - friend, that couldn't be further from the truth; it’s just one narrow facet of what ministry is.
Your ministry is the people you love and the relationships you serve.
We begin to discover our ministry through embodied living - by connecting to self, connecting to God, and connecting to others in authentic and generous ways. This takes time and intentionality to strip down and step into.
It’s knowing who you are and offering your unique gifts to build up, support, encourage, and equip the people right in front of you.
Any interaction can be ministry when you’re taking the image-bearing identity of those around you seriously.
I don’t preach by way of sermons or apologetics; I don’t feel uniquely equipped for that work. I am, however, equipped with compassion, integrity, and generosity... so that’s what I offer when it’s within my power to give.
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