This is the Service of…

In Numbers 4-5 (from last week’s reading), we saw the division of work that was given to the tribes of Levi. There were those who ministered, those who carried the holy things once they were covered, and those who carried the basic things.

Oh, what a joy to be counted to be in the service of the Lord.

The challenge that can come is for those who desire greater responsibilities. And this is part of the human condition… pride. We all want people to look up us as important.

• For pastors, the challenge can be to settle for the work God has called you to and not look to people who have a larger or “more important” ministry (is there such a thing in the Lord’s eyes?).
• For those who have been called to leadership, to accept the roles that their gifting is best suited.
• The same goes for those who are not called to leadership but to assist in the care of the work of the Lord that is not recognized.

We see this spelled out in 1 Corinthians 12 and in Romans 12. In Romans 12:6-8 Paul shares that we should be pleased to use our gifts in whatever way God might provide.

“We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith; if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully.”

Romans 12:6-8 NIV

The significance of Edward Kimball

Many have heard about the evangelist D.L. Moody, but have you heard of Edward Kimball? Edward was D.L. Moody’s Sunday School teacher who led him to Christ. It was Edward’s faithfulness to be a Sunday School teacher that God used to bring D.L. Moody to faith. And D.L. Moody, whom God used in a mighty way to reach countless for Christ, is a part of the evangelical chain that led Billy Graham to faith.

Look at how many people came to know Christ as their Savior because Edward Kimball did what God had called him to do!

In a multiethnic setting, this means that some of us that are a part of the dominant culture of the church will need to be willing step back. We need to allow others that are not a part of the dominant culture to fill roles that are more visible and use their gifts so that the body can be united and bring glory to Christ.

Instead of getting caught up in what we might want to do, let’s focus on what the Lord has gifted and prepared us to do. Ephesians 2:10 tells us that God has gifted us and set aside work for us. If our desire is to please our Master, then shouldn’t we be doing what He has called us to do. Do we know better than God who is equipped for what?

Lord, Help me to see and to know what work You have prepared and set aside for me to do, and then help me to be content to do it, regardless of how significant or insignificant the role is. May our only desire be to hear that You are pleased with our obedience, and our willingness to gladly accept whatever role You give us for the building of Your kingdom.