Being in the ministry is such an adventure!! There is a new blessing around each corner. It has been my intent the last few months to share things that have happened to me that are humorous. I truly believe the Lord wants us to enjoy life and as He said, life more abundantly. In this world today we have too many christians who are discouraged, depressed and defeated. We know from the Word of God that we are already victorious. We need not fear what each day brings since He gave us not the spirit of fear.
Thirty years ago I was the associate pastor and principal of a school in Miami Florida. The church had facilities that were tremendous and covered a city block. Several years before I arrived the church experienced some financial difficulties and since we did not use all the facilities they were forced to rent out a wing of classrooms to a seventh day adventist group. Now I would never had done that myself but that is a subject for another day. One day the first week of the school year I thought I would show myself friendly and go to their school office and introduce myself. I went into the office and there was the principal and several teachers standing around talking. I introduced myself and chatted a few minutes then turned to leave. I opened what I thought was the door I came in and entered. I immediately realized I had walked into the supply closet. I opened the door,, walked back into the office and confidently stated,"Well, I see you have all the supplies you need. Let me know if you need anything." I could hear them laughing as I headed back to my office. Pride is such a terrible thing.
I wish I could say that was all that happened that day but it got worse. We were in the middle of a candy sale for the school. When the adventist classes went to recess I took a box of candy bars to the playground and sold them to their students. It was not long before their principal came to my office. I could tell he was trying to be diplomatic so I asked him what I could do for him. He then proceeded to tell me that it was a problem selling his students candy bars. I had forgotten that they do not believe in eating chocolate. I was to say the least very apologetic.
As I stated before, the ministry is an adventure! I am glad to say that even after that disatrous day I later had the opportunity to share the gospel with the principal and that religion would not get him into Heaven but only by accepting Christ as his Saviour. I may have been embarrased at our first meeting but if we will be friendly and humble the Lord may give us the privilege of telling them of the Friend that sticks closer than a brother. Stay vigilant for every opportunity!
