Throughout September we will focus on the twin themes of “Discovering Your Spiritual Gifts,” and “Finding Your Area of Ministry.” In Paul’s letters he made it clear that God gave spiritual gifts to all Christian believers. “There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them,” he wrote. “There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. There are different kinds of working, but in all of them and in everyone it is the same God at work” (1 Cor. 12:4-6).
Weak churches hire ministers to do all the ministry on behalf of the lay people. Strong churches call ministers to lead all the members to get involved in some type of ministry. When you last came to the church for worship, who greeted you at the door? One of the members of our Greeter team! He or she volunteered to give a warm welcome to everyone who comes to worship. That is a great example of using a spiritual gift (the gift of hospitality) to bless others. Perhaps on the way in to church you noticed the beautiful flowers growing next to the entrance. They are tended by members of our Facilities Maintenance Committee. Another example of people using their gifts (of a “green thumb”) to bless others. In the sanctuary, you were probably greeted by an usher and then you enjoyed members of our choir leading everyone to sing joyously. Two more examples of people using their various gifts for the benefit of others.
What gifts do you have that God could use to bless people through the ministries of Haymarket Baptist Church? Perhaps you could help teach children during the Children’s Sunday school time after the Children’s Sermon? Or if you have strong math abilities you could assist the counting committee. If you love working with teenagers, you could volunteer for the Youth Committee. Or if preschoolers are your first love, you might bless our Preschool and Kindergarten by serving on the Preschool Council.
We will give you more information each Sunday in September about opportunities to serve. Please pray that God will open just the right door so you can use the gifts God has given you.
In Christ, Pastor Mark