JC Ryle, the great Evangelical Bishop of Liverpool, said that, “The church is a hospital for sinners, not a museum for saints”. He goes on to say, “We as Christians are not to simply sit and soak,” in our pews; rather we are to stand up and serve, both in our church and the outside community as well. We are to be the “hands and feet of Christ.”"Our people must learn to devote themselves to doing what is good, in order that they may provide for daily necessities and not live unproductive lives." Titus 3:14
As Christians, we understand that we are saved by grace, not by works. However, we are called to serve; doing good works that God has planned in advance for us to do. Heeding his calling to serve, Lon Barfield, was ordained as a Deacon on January 6, 2010 in Resurrection Protestant Episcopal Church of St. Augustine, FL. He was called to this ministry not by self but by God. This is not for Lon’s own glory but that God’s glory would be shown through his work in our community. Lon works tirelessly to feed and clothe the homeless and working poor of St. John County, and many have come to depend on his commitment, strength, and kindness.
Here’s the thing; every Christian’s mission in life is to bring glory to God and blessings to others - not just to receive, not to “sit and soak,” but to do. The result of doing these two things is that we are blessed in ways that are immeasurably greater than we can imagine.
Do you want to experience joy, excitement, and contentment in your life? Stand up and serve in a way that brings glory to God and blessings to others. Not everyone is called to become “clergy,” but God has a purpose and meaning for your life; that you can depend on.
"This is a trustworthy saying. And I want you to stress these things, so that those who have trusted in God may be careful to devote themselves to doing what is good. These things are excellent and profitable for everyone." Titus 3:8
We are all unique, wonderful creations of God. We have been granted gifts to be able to bring glory to God and blessings to his people. Lon Barfield has embraced his abundant God-given gifts and become the “hands and feet of Christ.”
Be a doer,
Bishop Ian
