“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” — 1 Peter 4:10
One of the greatest joys being a Christian is discovering that God can use ordinary people in extraordinary ways. Sometimes serving isn’t standing behind a pulpit or leading a large ministry. Sometimes it is simply showing up week after week, faithfully doing what God has placed before you.
When COVID suddenly changed our world, many of us felt disconnected. Our Wednesday night Bible studies came to an unexpected halt, and the fellowship we treasured was replaced by uncertainty. Rather than allowing that void to remain, God planted an idea in two willing hearts. Woo Hoo, It’s Wednesday! and Ron’s Friday messages were born.
Week after week, those devotions reminded us that although the church building was closed, God’s Word was never quarantined. They brought encouragement, hope, laughter, and truth into our lives at a time when many needed it most.
When we returned to worship together, Ron didn’t stop serving. Every week he faithfully wrote a recap of Sunday’s sermon so those who couldn’t attend could still be encouraged by God’s message. He also made sure the church bulletin reached those who were homebound, reminding them that they were still a valued part of the Covenant family.
Now Ron has decided it is time to step away from these ministries. While the weekly emails may come to an end, the impact they have made will continue. Countless people have been strengthened because one man quietly chose faithfulness over recognition.
Jesus taught His disciples that greatness in God’s Kingdom is found in serving others. Ron has demonstrated that truth beautifully. He has shown us that ministry isn’t always about being seen, it is about being willing. It is about using the gifts God has given us to bless someone else, expecting nothing in return.
As we thank Ron for his years of faithful service, perhaps the greatest way we can honor his example is by asking ourselves, How can I serve? There is always someone who needs encouragement, a note, a prayer, a phone call, a visit, or simply someone willing to care.
God doesn’t ask all of us to do the same thing, but He does ask each of us to do something.
Shine, Shine, Shine!