Unrealistic Expectations

It's so easy to be discouraged in "ministry". One would think over time there would be an increase in attendance and interest, that people would do more/be more faithful, that relationships would deepen and flourish, etc., etc., etc.

We've been serving with FCCN for over 4 years now, and it does get discouraging at times. The time and effort invested in people and teaching often shows little or no fruit. But think about this.

The congregation has changed. Even though we are small, we are a different group than we were four years ago. Some have moved on (and of course they are missed), others have come aboard, some have gone into eternal rest--yet what hasn't changed is the loving concern we have for each other.

True that there is probably more that we can do. But given the issues that most of the church family deals with, I think we are doing all that we realistically can. Sickness, aging, caring for others, finances--all these affect what we can "do." But doing these things with joy and an eye to the Lord can mean fruit will one day be borne that we will not be around to see.

Easy to think about things to "do" , and easy to forget it's about "being." Isn't it interesting that Jesus never really emphasized doing things for him? Nor did he emphasize church growth/numbers like we do.Rather, he was interested in his apprentices becoming like him, and from the becoming the doing would naturally follow.

Father, always remind me of these things. I think about them sometimes, but keep them always before me. I truly want to hear those words "Well done, good and faithful servant."