July 10, 2011

A Smile of Blessing

Ephesians 4:11-13

Christ himself gave … pastors and teachers, to equip his people for works of service …
Ephesians 4:11-12

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Our congregation’s worship coordinator smiles a lot. That’s important for anyone who often stands in front of a crowd of people to lead them in worship to God!

But our worship coordinator also smiles a lot when others stand at the microphone and lead in worship. After all, those are people he has nurtured and equipped, during practice times earlier in the week, to do their important work well.

I think part of the reason he smiles is to encourage those who are leading worship. I also think that his smile arises from the sheer pleasure of seeing other people engaged in ministry. It’s a special joy to see those you have trained for their work step up and carry that work out! It’s a delight to know that you have blessed someone to be a blessing to others.

Every Christian pastor, teacher, and worship coordinator knows something of that joy. Equipping other people for ministry is one of their primary tasks. In their work they are called to help the entire bodyofChrist,the church, grow to “the whole measure of the fullness of Christ”—and that brings great joy!

Give thanks to God today for the people who bless you through their ministries. And give thought to the ways your gifts might be enhanced to serve others!

We long for fullness, Lord—fullness in Christ! Thank you for providing people whose gifts and service move us further along toward that fullness. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

About the author — David Den Haan

Pastor Dave Den Haan has served at Fairway Christian Reformed Church in Jenison, Michigan, since 1999. Previously he served a church in Minnesota. Dave and his wife, Connie, have three children.

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