For the Greater Good

(c) Amy S. Lewis 2009

Rounding up cows and their calves in a pasture of thousands of acres is no small task. It seems there are always a few who wander off from the herd. That means every canyon, grove of trees and plateau needs to be searched for stragglers. As a rookie to working cattle, I often felt slighted when I was sent to remote areas to be sure there weren’t any cows and calves hiding out. Another wild-goose chase, I’d think to myself.

Then it occurred to me that if one calf was in those remote areas, separated from its mother, it wouldn’t have food and may become prey to mountain lions or other predators. I have a much more willing attitude now when I’m given the job of searching the outer reaches of a pasture, knowing it’s important to find every calf. The work is not complete until every cow and calf is accounted for.

Similarly, every job for God is important. Whether it’s setting up chairs for a church event, scrubbing floors or leading a Bible study. Have you ever heard anyone declare, “I have the gift of scrubbing floors. Please allow me”? There are many humbling, yet necessary, jobs that keep our churches and ministries running smoothly.

If you’re feeling uninspired to do the mindless and mundane jobs, remember Jesus is our example, and in a great display of humility and service, Jesus washed the disciples’ feet in John 13. How many of us would be willing to wash the feet of our friends, family, other Christians, much less strangers, the homeless or the elderly?

Paul had helpers who got very little limelight and yet played an important role nonetheless. Colossians 4:7 says, “Tychicus, a much loved brother, will tell you how I am getting along. He is a faithful helper who serves the Lord with me.” Luke, Barnabas Silas and Timothy all supported Paul in his ministry. He could be more effective at spreading the gospel because he had others supporting him in the “less important’” tasks.

Perhaps your small act of service or “wild-goose chase” will help ease the burdens of those who may be called to lead the Bible study or give the sermon. Every job, however little, contributes to the greater good – the advancement of the Kingdom. And when we do these things with a willing heart, without complaining, it honors God and sets an example for others.

Questions for Reflection:

1. What ministry could use your help with the “simple” or unglamorous jobs?

2. What has been your attitude toward seemingly menial jobs in the past? How can you do them with more enthusiasm?

3. When you’ve helped with the little tasks in the past, how did you feel afterwards?