Brooms, Paper Towels, & Baptisms

Encouragement For The Weary Pastor

I had just preached my heart out and hadn't even stepped off the platform. I did not exit to the lobby like I usually would because our Associate Pastor had gone there with a representative from the Gideons, who was collecting an offering for their Bible distribution.

No one responded to the invitation, but three people immediately approached me:

First, a little boy came to tell me that there were no paper towels in the boys’ bathroom. I inquired about which one and thanked him for letting me know.

Second, a mom approached and asked me where she could find a broom. I did my best to tell her where she might find one, and off she went.

Third, a mother and her two boys walked up on the platform. She informed me that all three of them wanted to be baptized! I rejoiced with them and quickly gave them some further instructions.

I walk off the platform and take a few steps, and I am met by a fourth person, this time a lady. She is concerned about a person in our community whom I have been "working on" and who we are praying will receive Christ. She gives me an update and encourages me to follow up.

This is the way ministry is - the mundane with the marvelous!

Brooms, paper towels, baptisms, and trying to win the lost—all of this happened within a few minutes.

I'm thankful that all four individuals felt comfortable enough to consult me about their concerns.

Ministry is a mixed bag. Sometimes it’s, “We want to get baptized,” and sometimes it’s, “We need more trash bags.”

We are shepherds caring for the flock of God. Their needs are our concern.

So grab a broom or a Bible; both can be used to honor Him.