Every role is important

"The work of the Levites was to assist the priests, the descendants of Aaron, as they served at the house of the LORD. They also took care of the courtyards and side rooms, helped perform the ceremonies of purification, and served in many other ways in the house of God." 1 Chronicles 23:28 NLT

 

As I looked back at all the photos from last weekend's Bad Dawg Ultra (a 30 hour event with distances from 12 miles to 100 miles), I couldn't help but smile as I read the comments elicited from one of my favorite images taken of the aid station workers at the event's 5-mile turnaound point. "Loved seeing those faces," wrote one runner while another exclaimed, "Best aid station ever!! The broth was the bomb!!" And still another grateful runner wrote, "Wouldn’t have been able to do it without you all! Thank you for being there!" And you know, as I looked at the faces of these smiling volunteers, I couldn't help but be grateful for them. While I, along with my team, had worked the main aid station where you could say the "memorable" stuff happened... hugs, photos, tears of joy, and high-fives to the volunteers and Race Directors at the finish line, these people were unsung heroes who joyfully served without expecting any accolades or commendations. These were the people who ensured that each and every runner had what they needed to make it to the finish line, whether their service was acknowledged or not. Do you just love people like that or what? 

And you know, the church body functions in much the same way. While there are important roles that need to be filled like the job of pastor and worship leader that come with praise and recognition, there are also positions that need to be filled that no one thinks about or gets much credit for... positions like nursery workers, greeters, janitors, small group leaders and the list goes on. But like the Levites and priests, whose job it was to work together behind the scenes to ensure that worship in the temple could take place, each and every place of service within the body is important and crucial to the functioning of the church as a whole, no matter how "memorable" these jobs might seem. 

So remember this my friend... no matter what type of service you have been called to perform "in the house of God," your position is important. So like these joyful aid station workers, fulfill your duty with a smile on your face and joy in your heart knowing that your work is helping someone reach that final finish line. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that every role in your house is important. Cause us to understand that we work for You and not man so that we might fulfill that which we are called to do with happy hearts that will inspire those around us to join in the work as well. Thank You for giving us opportunities to serve You by serving others Lord. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!