Just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. ~ Romans 12:4-5 (NIV)
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They say that one man's trash is another man's treasure. So too, ones man's misery is another man's ministry.
Some people in Christ's body love to work with babies and children, but can't possibly see themselves standing on stage (where people can actually see them!) singing in the choir. Others are drawn to work with the homeless, but can't fathom the claustrophobia of working in an office setting. Still others love to sit and visit with older folks who are home-bound and failing, but have no desire or motivation to be a Bible study leader.
One man's misery is another man's ministry. God has uniquely formed each of us as human beings, with certain strengths and abilities, as well as desires and passions. And if we are part of His family through Jesus Christ, we become part of Christ's body, the church. Jesus has much work to do here on earth, rescuing the lost and strengthening the saints; therefore, we have work to do. Fortunately for the homeless, not everyone is drawn to working with babies; likewise, if every member was in the choir, who would teach our youth about God's Word? There is a place for everyone in the work of the Lord, and God is the one in charge of steering you where He wants you to serve.
You don't have to look at others and wish you were them, doing the ministry they're doing because it seems glamorous or gallant. Look to yourself and how God has wired you. Ask Him to help you recognize your passions and strengths, and move in that direction. Service for God is a blessing, but ill-placed ministry can be misery. Don't feel guilty if even the sight of a diaper bag causes you to break out into a cold sweat, let alone the panic of actually picking up a baby! Jesus doesn't operate His body by guilt and manipulation. But He does place in our hearts, minds and bodies the seeds of joy and blessing for service in areas that fit who and how we were created.
Every member of Christ's body is valuable and integral, and we all need each other to fulfill the work of the Lord. If you're an "elbow", you are vital to the eating process. If you're a "foot", you propel the body on the journey. Don't discount who you are and the part you play in serving God in His body. Enjoy the way God has wired you and be active in your local congregation as a love offering to the Lord.
Got ministry? It does the body good . . .
Love,
Joelene
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