People “Ministry”
It has taken me quite a few years to arrive at this address, but I am here. I have come to not like the terms “ministry” and “minister”. They have no less meaning than, “someone or something” that “serves” people.
The word "ministry" comes from the Latin word "ministerium" which means "office, service, attendance, ministry". The earliest known use of ministry is in the Middle English period (1150—1500). Ordinarily, I would not refer to languages or terms that are not the language of GOD’s chosen ones, but I will as needed. As you can see, this term has only been around for just over 1000 years, or so.
People and sects today use this term as if it is special. I don’t see it as being so. If you are an obedient or even willing participant of reaching people, you are such an individual.
If you are a Shepherd of the sheep, this is your JOB. It IS “what you do.”
The term “pastor” derives from “pasture” which means, you are to help the animals to get what they require for that day.
Does it denote responsibility? It certainly does! Does it make you gold plated, or give you the ability to walk on water? Not at all!
It says, “You are willing to put up with the people on all of their animalist traits and instincts.” It also says, “You are 100% willing to get dirty.” We people need help, guidance and instruction, otherwise, we will fall apart and eventually, abuse, use up and destroy all that we touch. There is nothing cute and sweet about the function of loving on and serving people.
Loving people requires that you be self-less.
Loving and serving humans will cost you some skin, blood, tears and pain (in many forms). You will be rejected and scorned. You will be abused and walked on by many. However, there are always the ones (few) who care enough to receive what you offer. Sometimes, there is not much to give, but give we must.
Does that sound like the life of Jesus?!
There is a song that speaks to this. The artist is named, Colton Dixon. Here are the lyrics and the link, if you want to hear it:
https://youtu.be/G0Dzh3RZn0E?feature=shared
“Through All of it”
“There are days I've taken more than I can give. There are choices that I’ve made, that I wouldn't make again.
I've had my share of laughter, of tears and troubled times. This has been the story of my life.
I have won. I have lost. I got it right sometimes, but sometimes I did not.
Life's been a journey. I've seen joy, I've seen regret. Oh, and You have been my GOD through all of it.
You were there when it all came down on me; when I was blinded by my fear, and I struggled to believe.
But in those unclear moments, You were the One keeping me strong. This is how my story's always gone.
I have won. I have lost. I got it right sometimes, but sometimes I did not.
Life's been a journey. I've seen joy, I've seen regret. Oh, and You have been my GOD through all of it.
…and this is Who You are, more constant than the stars up in the sky. …all these years of my life, I - I look back and I see You.
Right now, I still do; and I'm always going to.
I have won. I have lost. I got it right sometimes, but sometimes I did not.
Life's been a journey. I've seen joy, I've seen regret. Oh, and You have been my GOD through all of it.”
Loving and serving people in “ministry” involves putting the needs of others before your own and demonstrating a willingness to help without expecting anything in return. The purpose describes everything that resembles guiding and supporting individuals. …especially those who are struggling or seeking direction and hope.
The impact of loving others will require your kindness and generosity. It will usually cost you and require you to share unusual resources, donating extra time and emotional energy. The conversations may not all be about kittens, rainbows and snow cones. Truth can hurt and being vulnerable is part of it.
Building Relationships and serving others will foster positive relationships and along the journey, strengthen communities by creating a sense of connection and mutual support.
”Serving and loving” people, as the core principle, is more than a religious and philosophical deed. It involves actively caring for and supporting their emptiness, often through acts of kindness, compassion, and undetermined service, with the goal of improving their lives and fostering positive relationships.
There SHOULD be Joy and eventual positive impact in serving others. Does pain and frustration come with it! Oh yeah! ...for certain!!
It would be an outright lie if anyone says "they do not"