BY JO BETH BOYLES |
The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few. -Matthew 9:37
The Moravian Ministry shared this verse on social media in September. The Lord had put this verse on my heart as I had been praying about what to write. Workers are needed for the many jobs open in our society. Those willing to work have the option of overtime, retention bonuses, the lure of sign-on bonuses, and other opportunities.
Recently at a fast food restaurant, I had a long wait. The young lady was not only the order taker but was also the food prep person. She was working hard and I as a Christian knew that I needed to encourage her. A few businesses have hired teenagers who show the enthusiasm of their first job. I have had the blessing of being made welcome by these workers.
Our churches, including Bethabara, face a worker shortage. The same group of people support the church, including many ministries and programs of the Moravian church. The same few mow the yard, clean the church, teach Sunday School, participate in the music ministry as well as provide a clothing and food pantry and a take home meal ministry.
We have had to make choices of what is important in this “worker for HIS kingdom” shortage.
What is the church’s purpose? As a follower of Christ what is our most important task? The Salvation which comes from a personal relationship with Jesus Christ is our purpose.
God’s word teaches us that this earthly life is temporary. I for one would like to see my Moravian brothers and sisters focus more on the eternal life that the blood of Jesus Christ bought for each of us if we accept Him as our Lord and Savior. We are too few in number to be pulled apart and not work together for His Kingdom.
I am saying this for your benefit, not to place restrictions on you. I want you to do whatever will help you serve the Lord best, with as few distractions as possible. -1 Corinthians 7:35
Jesus is my Joy, therefore Blest am I.
About the Author
Jo Beth Boyles has a great appreciation for history and genealogy. She serves the Lord by playing the flute at Bethabara Moravian Church. Her husband, Robby, sings in the choir and she has two grown children, Katie and Robert. The picture above is of Jo Beth from the 1970s at Historic Bethabara.