Ministry Lesson #1
I’ve decided to create a series of lessons that I am learning about ministry. For those who don’t know, a little more than a month ago I came on board at Cross Point to assist Pete Wilson on a day to day basis. It’s been an amazing opportunity to learn everything I can about ministry and serve with the most talented and best group of people I have ever been around.
I hope the lessons I am learning will give you an insight into the world of ministry and what I am learning. These lessons are just what I am personally learning. Hope you enjoy.
Ministry Lesson #1
A LOT of work goes into a Sunday service. A lot. I am amazed at the energy and time it takes from staff AND volunteers to make Sunday happen. Of course every single second is worth it, but that’s not the lesson. That was just a realization. The lesson that I have learned is that I have to turn myself off in order to worship.
Sundays are a work day. We all have responsibilities on that day, so how do we also experience worship? We all need that time on Sundays to worship with others, but I will admit that it is easier said than done. The first few weeks I found myself sneaking into the service right before the message. I would try my best to listen, but I would still be in work mode.
“Why is that guy standing up in the middle of the service? Why is he approaching the stage? What happened to the video cue?” And on and on it went. I would leave with a sense of job well done and know that people experienced God. But did I?
It wasn’t until after Catalyst that I realized I was cheating God on Sundays. Catalyst wasn’t my responsibility and I sat back and worshiped and learned. It was refreshing and convicting.
So I learned a lesson. I have to turn “off” and give God everything I have during one of the services. From beginning to end. I’m sure it will be a discipline that I will have to work on, but nothing I am doing is as important as stopping and experiencing the creator of the universe with those around me.
Lesson Learned.
What’s a discipline that you have had to institute in order to give God the time he deserves?
Completely not answering your question here but I have never been one to follow directions
I used to work for a bookstore chain and was constantly in bookstores with the eyes of a merchant. And it completely ruined an experience I once loved. I still struggle going into a store and just casually browse books with a sense of wonder.
I identify with your struggle and hope you continue to find ways to worship with wondrous adoring eyes.
Ditto with Lindsey im the same way in my world. Except now that I have learned to ‘read people’ better i turn that on in every conversation. ugh
To your point… Can you help my sister and Ashley with that. Its like pulling teeth to get them to go sit and stop working
Bout time you got a post up here
I’ve been in and out of town the since July, singing at church at least once a month, and have felt like I really haven’t gotten to sit and enjoy the service. In talking with Miranda, I realized that you all really don’t get to “turn off.”
I try to notice the everyday, little things that God is responsible for. The changing trees, the formation of a butterfly (that has GOT to be the COOLEST thing I’ve ever seen,) the contrast between the blue sky, green trees, and the white clouds on a nice day, just the beauty all around us. I feel like if I can give God the glory for that, then I’ve at least done something for the day!
Also, I LOVED Today’s Special when I was a kid. (found your old blog, had to comment about that show!) I miss good old Sam and Jeff! Remember when they went camping in the store? Did you watch “Pinwheel” with the snail who would go inside his shell to vaccuum? Ah, the good old days!
This is probably the most important lesson to learn. So glad you’re a part of the team!
i really true I love your blog thanks