Great Men

Tomorrow (May 2, 2021) I will be honored to serve as the “old Minister” who will deliver “the Charge” to the “young (new) minister. It is a formality practiced for scores of years. The ceremony is called “Ordination” and confers some important tasks and privileges into the ministry of those who are chosen for the task of leading a part of the Church of Jesus Christ. I consider my part one of the more important tasks I ever undertake.

The one to be ordained is not new to ministry (he has an impressive resume), but is new to the “single Church” pastoral role. No one doubts his commitment to our Father, his llove for the Church, and his abilities to carry out an effective Biblical pastorate. Most of what I will say will be direct quotes from Scripture, and hopefully a bit of wisdom from my over 60 years of participation in Church leadership ministry.

My fondest wish is that the people (members of his new place of ministry and leadership, and other guests) who hear the Charge will accept responsibility for believing, learning, accepting, and living out the Truths that will be revealed over the tenure of his work with this Body. Pastors often find themselves pressured into delivering much which is not a part of the design. Other participants in God’s design for His Family often struggle with faithfulness, commitment, consistent participation, and support for those who lead. To create an environment where all are able to grow into Spiritual maturity requires (demands) universal participation. No individual who is part of the family of God is less important in the process. The learner and the teacher must both work with all diligence if the goal is to be reached. (See Ephesians 4:11ff)

My prayer today is that when these moments are over tomorrow, everyone who is a participant (and all those who follow in the same path) will understand the Scriptural mandate to be 100% focused on God’s design for His Church (Family), and committed to bringing it to pass.

While my mind tells me that is not about to happen, my heart longs for that reality. There is always a first time!