Word for the day by Christian Education Forum

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Ordained Ministry: Call to be sacrifice

Bible Reading:   1 Peter 5:1-4

Key verse:  2

“Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, watching over them—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be.” (1 Peter 5:2) 

DEVOTION

The second week of July is observed as Clergy Sunday, when we thank God for the faithful service of our clergy. It is also a season when many young people enter the ordained ministry through ordination during July and August. This offers us an opportunity to reflect on the sacred calling of ministry, pray for those who have answered God’s call, and commit ourselves to being examples of faithfulness and encouragement to the clergy who serve our church.
Ordained ministry is a divine calling, not merely a profession. Peter exhorts church leaders that they are entrusted with Christ’s flock and are called to shepherd God’s people willingly, selflessly, and faithfully. Like Jesus, the Good Shepard, every minister is called to embrace a life of sacrifice - teaching, protecting, praying for, and serving God’s people with humility and love.
John Henry Jowett tells of a story of a servant girl who spent her days preparing meals and cleaning while others attended church services. When the priest asked her when she found the time to pray, she replied that every night she read the birth and death news in the newspaper each night. She prayed for newborns, married couples, and grieving families. Though her work kept her busy, her heart remained focused on serving others through prayer. Her prayers were centered not on herself but on the needs of others. 
This story reminds us to examine our motives. Ministry is not about status or personal gain but about loving Christ and serving the people of God. As we observe Clergy Sunday, let us pray for our clergy and those preparing for ordination. May they faithfully shepherd God's flock, knowing that the Chief Shepherd has promised an unfading crown of glory to those who serve Him wholeheartedly.

PRAYER

Gracious God, we thank You for calling people to serve in ordained ministry. Fill them with wisdom, humility, courage, and love as they shepherd Your people. Help us also to support them through our prayers, encouragement, and faithful witness. Teach each of us to serve You selflessly wherever You have placed us, following the example of Jesus, the Good Shepherd. May we all remain faithful to Your calling and bring glory to Your name. In Jesus' name we pray. Amen. .

Thought for the DAY

 Before asking, “What can the Church do for me? Ask, “How can I serve Christ and His people today?” A willing heart is the greatest offering we can give to God. 

Rev. Oommen Philip
Former Sabha Secretary

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