THE STORY OF JESUS: Acts 6:1-7
“Give our attention to prayer and the ministry of the word.” (Acts 6:4)
Reading this passage, it seems that ‘waiting on tables’ is beneath them.
But it is not beneath them, it is not their specific calling.
They were commissioned as first disciples to oversee the ministry of the word.
By this is meant oversight for the whole Jesus mission, not just ‘preaching’.
The service (ministry) of the message (the word) is the whole mission of Jesus.
To go to the ends of the earth with the good news of the kingdom of Jesus.
This was a huge task then, and still is a huge task today.
By delegating these tasks in the church to others, they could focus on their task.
The part about prayer is not unique to this ministry, but is for all workers.
These seven were commissioned to the ministry of prayer and waiting on tables.
By prayer is meant surrendering to God’s leadership and direction.
To be led by the Spirit as they fulfilled their task.
We are all called to give our attention to prayer and a specific ministry.
What specific task are you assigned to in/with the church in the world?
What do you sense the Lord saying to you?
PRAYER
Lord, to each of us a task has been assigned. Help us to give our attention to You (prayer) and to the task You have assigned us!