Discontent is a problem when we think we need more power, money, status, or position to be of more effective service. All followers of Jesus may stand before our local communities and minister to them. We can stand before our families, workplaces, markets, schools, friends, neighbors, and street corners. We are privileged to share the gospel with them, to pray for them and with them, sing to them and with them, open our homes and hospitality to them and with them. We ought to rejoice when they rejoice, mourn with those who mourn. Praise Jesus that we may bear his Name in such love and service to our neighbors and friends. Praise Jesus that we may also bear his word, his image, and his power as we cry out for his living water to flow to us, in us, and through us. Praise Jesus that he is eager and willing to provide extra loaves of the bread of life to share with those around us.

Many have said we'd rather be doorkeepers in the house of God than to dwell in the tents of the wicked. In God's house, doorkeepers include parking lot attendants, greeters, and those engaged in bringing the message and love of Jesus to those who may not yet attend church regularly. Doorkeepers also include those who pursue social media ministry opportunities to help get people unstuck in their journey to Jesus. This should be enough for us – even without official church compensation, recognition, or even sanction. Jesus will compensate. Jesus will recognize. Jesus has sanctioned. We are the hands of Jesus. We are the feet of Jesus. We are the ambassadors of Jesus. We are the voice of Jesus to a lost and dying world. Such a privileged position is a higher honor than even the most notable of the Old Testament saints. (See Matthew 11:11).

Querido Padre Celestial,

I confess I have often been discontent and sought greater recognition and reward. I confess at best I have only done my duty. A lot of times, I have not even done my duty very well. Thank You that the ground has not swallowed me up and that You have saved me from the destruction that I deserve. Open my eyes and heart to the door keeping ministry opportunities around me. Help me stop seeing myself as the hero of every Bible story and to heed Your warning that if I cannot be content, I may well reap consequences more like the villain. In the Name of Jesus, I pray. Amen. 

 

Scripture says that in God’s presence we find vision for our lives, fullness of joy, spiritual strength, and heavenly peace (shalom). Hallelujah! Many in the world are dying for want of such blessings. Wherever God has you, you can experience His presence. Be thankful and excellent in your role to honor Him. Know that you are a part of God working “all things” together for good, and that God sees you. Do you want more? Be faithful where you are and ask God to enlarge your territory.