Don’t let your youth come in the way of service.
After miracles ceased, hymn books no longer arranged themselves on chairs before assemblies began and returned to the bookshelves after service- if they ever did! The building’s electrical equipment did not switch on, and neither did the toilets clean themselves. More worrying, the doors and windows were not self-shutting.
Someone had to perform menial tasks before and after each assembly so that the rest of the brethren can concentrate in safety and comfort on singing, praying, listening to scriptures expounded, and partaking in the elements of the Lord’s Supper. After which there were the notes, coins, and cheques of the Sunday collection to be precisely counted and banked. Work enough for everyone to get involved in!
Truth be told, every skill and professional ability is a gift of God (Deuteronomy 8:18) which should be used to serve others, especially those in need (Ephesians 4:28). But, it all begins with a decision to use our energy for the simplest tasks.
Clearly, not everything which is needed as a Christian’s service to the Lord fits conveniently into either “Evangelism”, “Edification” or “Benevolence”. Just as there are no insignificant parts of the body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12:12-27), every work or effort for the fulfillment of the Great Commission is of value as service, all to God’s glory (1 Corinthians 10:31). And the essence of Christian service? “I also please all men in all things, not seeking my own profit, but the profit of many, that they may be saved.” (1 Corinthians 10:33).
So, don’t allow your “youth “ in the faith to stand in the way of service (1 Timothy 4:12) – continuous, regular, repetitive but purposeful work that has the good of others in mind and at heart (Galatians 6:10). What more can you do for the Lord’s body, behind-the-scene and unassumingly?
You’re never too young, nor too old, to do something for the Lord.
Three years ago, sister P met Madam L at the management office of an apartment. The latter had suffered major personal losses. They became friends. Madam L came for regular church service. The Movement Control Order protocols put a temporary halt to physical attendance.
When MCO rules were eased, friendship resumed. Between them, personal stories were shared. Brother W then taught Madam L the plan of salvation. Receiving the word, she was baptized. Sister S further studied with her. Her understanding of the Scriptures improved. This was at a time when no one knew when or how the pandemic would end.
Physical sustenance proved to be a challenge for sister L. To help with her meals, five sisters started a monthly collection for this purpose. The effort is ongoing.
If in the past sister L felt insecure, things have changed. She is no longer the same despondent senior citizen sister P first met years ago in that management office. She is now filled with joy and has a sense of worth. Many hands were at work.
That said, more hands are needed as there are other madam Ls needing our assistance.