The old and new are always around us: how we have worshiped, the nature of how we understand the Bible, the way we organize ourselves as a congregation, or a family, the ministries we support with our time and money.Jesus came into a world that was ordered and had a set of priorities that were working for them. Everyone knew their place, and everything and everyone had a place. Then the incarnation happened, then God became human and lived among us and there was a change in how things were prioritized. This was a problem not only for God’s chosen people but it became a problem for this new church that formed around the ministry and mission of the Son of God. “How do we do ministry?” the early Christians wondered. The Apostles became concerned that there were too many daily chores involved in caring for widows and orphans and the prime directive of spreading the word was not being accomplished.They needed help and so the deacons were established to care for the people while the 12 (disciples, now apostles) set out to evangelize the world
The fact is, all the various ministries are important, but not everyone is good at or gifted in all ministries. We need teachers and administrators, preachers and leaders to be a growing and nurturing congregation. We need to come together to worship and learn. We need to pray corporately (regular worship) and individually for each other and ministry we have as Good Shepherd.We need to be challenged about stewardship of all that we are gifted with, ourselves, our time and our possessions as we go though our daily life.
Jesus continued to challenge all those who followed him to examine their lives. Most important we are called to action for the Kingdom of God. We still have that challenge and calling.
