Shared Ministry Day 5

In those days when the number of disciples was increasing, the Grecian Jews among them complained against the Hebraic Jews because their widows were being overlooked in the daily distribution of food. So the Twelve gathered all the disciples together and said, "It would not be right for us to neglect the ministry of the word of God in order to wait on tables. Brothers, choose seven men from among you who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will turn this responsibility over to them and will give our attention to prayer and the ministry of the word."

This proposal pleased the whole group. They chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit; also Philip, Procorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas from Antioch, a convert to Judaism. They presented these men to the apostles, who prayed and laid their hands on them.

So the word of God spread. The number of disciples in Jerusalem increased rapidly, and a large number of priests became obedient to the faith.

Stephen Seized

Now Stephen, a man full of God's grace and power, did great wonders and miraculous signs among the people. Opposition arose, however, from members of the Synagogue of the Freedmen (as it was called)—Jews of Cyrene and Alexandria as well as the provinces of Cilicia and Asia. These men began to argue with Stephen, but they could not stand up against his wisdom or the Spirit by whom he spoke. (Acts 6: 1-10)

On Day 1 this week, we saw how the apostles selected seven men to clean tables and take care of the elderly in the church. You may have thought to yourself, I'm glad I don't have that job. (I had the same reaction.) But one of these men - Stephen - not only was taking care of the widows, but also he was doing miracles. Since god was with him, Stephen saw the power of the Holy Spirit in everything he did. But even so, he didn't mind cleaning tables. No job in the kingdom is beneath us. Since Jesus washed feet, we have no room to refuse whatever God asks us to do. When we all serve willingly and wherever God places us, we might start to see miracles as well. God has many plans in store for you, so don't judge a ministry opportunity too quickly.

Have you ever declined a chance to serve because it was "beneath you"? What was it? Would you respond in the same way now?

Are you willing to do whatever God asks of you? Why or why not?