And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ… (Ephesians 4:11–12, ESV)
I have been reading a book called Who Broke Your Church by Kent Hunter. In this book, Kent tells a story of a janitor he met at NASA. When he happened upon the janitor, he did not notice the toilet brush in the janitor’s hand. When Kent asked, “What do you do at NASA?” The janitor replied, “I’m helping put a rover on Mars.”
That janitor understood something important. He understood how his seemingly menial task contributed to a greater purpose. It is a picture of the work of building God’s kingdom.
Our seemingly menial efforts have a big impact. The small things matter. It is often what seems most insignificant is the most important. But tthat is how Kingdom math works – he first will be last, the weak are made strong, and the least will be great.
As a preacher, I am blessed by the many willing servants. All of these servants contribute to a greater purpose. The nursery worker is not just watching kids; they are providing busy parents with a few moments of quiet to connect with God. The Altar Guild is not just putting bread and wine on the altar; they are helping to prepare the Lord’s table for people to find healing and forgiveness. The usher is not just handing out bulletins, but welcoming people who may feel unsure or nervous about walking into a church.
Every action we take has consequences. We may not realize the full impact our actions have. We may not see how our lack of care will discourage another person. Or how our diligence will inspire someone for greater things.
Colossians 3:23-24 says:
Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ.” (Colossians 3:23–24, ESV)
If that does not give you a big enough purpose, I don’t know what will.
Reflection
- What menial task in your life do you need to connect with a greater purpose?
- How do you see a greater purpose in the mundane and every day tasks of your life?
Prayer
Lord, thank you for the work you have entrusted to me. Sometimes I am disheartened and feel as if what I do does not matter. Help me to see the bigger picture. Help me see from your perspective how what I do has an incredible kingdom impact. Amen.
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