I am no theologian, but much of how I see faith involves having a proper perspective. Personally, this means recognizing that I often lack the proper perspective. A story I once heard illustrates this concept:
On a foggy night, a battleship steamed through a patch of fog. Suddenly from ahead, a signal flashed through the fog instructing that the ship change course 20 degrees to their port side. The ship’s commanding officer had a reply sent back instructing this intruder to change their course. Quickly, the signal flashed again, “Strongly advise you change course 20 degrees to port immediately”. The commanding officer replied “I am an Admiral, change your course.” A response came back, “I am a Petty Officer change your course immediately.” The Admiral finally responded, “We are a Battleship, and do not change course for any vessel.” The signal through the fog then responded, “I am a Light House. You are about to run aground.” The Battleship quickly changed course.
Many times in life, I have lost perspective. At times, my personal tribulations loom larger than any other issues that exist. Much like the Admiral, I believe my own importance is greater than anything. Yet, just like a ship against the shore, I am powerless to the real concerns of carrying out God’s mission. The fact is, no matter how self-important I allow myself to become, I am either living as God wants me to live or I am not. And, if I lose perspective I will run aground and founder as surely as the battleship would have in the example above.
Our congregation at times faces a similar dilemma. An active church constantly deals with internal issues that challenge our perception of exactly what direction we are going. Do not lose sight of the fact that the church is obligated to spread the word of God and expand the Kingdom of Christ. Asbury is blessed with a vibrant, caring congregation that fulfills this obligation. The Ministry Teams at Asbury carry the torch of Christ into our community. God has provided each of us with gifts, talents and resources that can be used to strengthen these Ministry Teams and with them extend Asbury’s reach into the community.
Our personal challenge then becomes to keep the proper perspective on just why God has blessed each of us with talents and abilities. We do not own our possessions, they belong to God. We are not responsible for our abilities, they come from God. We do not possess our time, it is a gift from God.
Keeping this perspective in mind, I invite you to learn more about the Ministry Teams of Asbury and how they carry out our church mission. In last month’s newsletter, the Outreach Ministry Team was highlighted. In the coming months, more Ministry Teams will be given the opportunity to share their story. As you learn about these Teams and their missions, please consider whether your resources, talents or time could be put to use in service. There is an opportunity for each of us to give back to God some of what He has given to us.
Don Bowers, Stewardship Chair
