Walking With Jesus (Ministry)Sample

(Not) an ordinary shepherd

Amos 1:1, 1 Petrus 4:10

Amos was not a prophet nor a priest's son; he was just a shepherd. His work was not something considered a flashy ministry in the eyes of the world. He could have chosen to live quietly in his hometown, Tekoa: pursue his job, provide for his family, and worship God. However, God gave him a vision and told him to deliver an important message to the Israelites – that he obeyed. We also know Amos as a prophet of God. He wrote one of the books in the Bible, namely the Book of Amos.

By our today's standards, Amos was not a servant of the Lord. He was someone who worked in the secular world. However, God called him a spokesman to deliver divine warnings to his people. That call changed his life. The story of Amos teaches us that God's calling is not limited by work. The Lord called some people to serve Him full time. Just like what happened to Amos, God may also call those diligent in carrying out their daily duties and works to carry out a ministry.

Today, our work may also not smell “spiritual” or promise high-impact success. On the other hand, we might even feel established and steady with a job. Remember, God can give us a special calling to serve Him. God has never distinguished between the spiritual and secular worlds. In the world of secular work or business, we must also work with the right spiritual standards and values. That is our calling for ministry wherever we are. God wants us to represent Him wherever He places us. We need to develop the openness and sensitivity to hear God's call and the courage to respond to that call.

Reflection:

1. Do you realize that your work is a form of ministry to the Lord? How could it affect your work environment?

2. Have you been doing your work with a spiritual standard? Share it with everyone!

Practice: Be an ordinary person with extraordinary values!