Ministry is multifaceted…

There is study, learning, and growth.

There is teaching, preaching, writing, publicity, poetry, books, articles, studies.

In addition there is conflict resolution, building maintenance, renovation, budget preparation, financial accountability, volunteer co-ordination, spiritual guidance, boards and committees.

We are present at birth, death, medical procedures, surgeries, recovery, crises, counseling, weddings, blessings, baptism, graduations, retirement celebrations, funerals.

We visit in homes, businesses, schools, kid's games, nursing homes, hospitals, over lunch.

We encourage fellowship, friendship, multifaceted support.

We plan and lead worship, devotions, sermons, prayers, preside at the table, invoke God’s presence, provide benediction, select music, youth groups, adult groups, mission experiences, preparation of food, fun experiences.

We must think on the cutting edge, introduce change in a palatable way, think about the needs of the community and the world. Raise funding for ministry,negotiate, challenge while comforting, speak the truth in love, address controversial issues, respect differing opinions and politics, learn new technology, provide vision and lead goal setting, pay attention to the culture, respect tradition, innovate, make sure things are clean, be able to lead and organize, manage a complicated calendar, welcome people, be outgoing and friendly while being introspective and contemplative, express gratitude regularly, motivate, discipline, be familiar with building maintenance needs.

And there may be a couple of thousand other things that must be considered.

I love every minute of the work we do for the Kingdom of God on earth.

Moving to the deeper places,
Jeff