“The Priesthood of all Believers”~~ that is what Martin Luther called the ministry of every baptized person.

What does that mean, exactly? It means a number of things~~among them is the understanding that each of us who belongs to Jesus Christ has been set free through him to serve God’s people. Being set free to serve sounds contradictory. In a way it is, but then again, much of our Christian faith contradicts what the world says.

The priesthood of all believers means every single one of us has a part to play in God’s ministry in the place where we are. What that looks like is going to vary considerably based upon our age, abilities and other circumstances, but every single one of us can contribute in some way.

In much the same way, we speak of the different gifts each of us has been given by God’s Holy Spirit. Once again, those gifts are given in order to enable the very same ministry of God’s people in this place.

How are you using the gifts of the Spirit to enable the ministry of which you are a vital part? Have you considered what your gifts might be? If not, think about things you enjoy doing, things that seem to come naturally or without a great effort, things that give you pleasure and satisfaction. Often times these are the same things that are your gifts. Next, consider how these fit into our church’s ministry needs, consider how you can fulfill your part in the priesthood of all believers by filling a need in our ministry. Maybe it is an existing ministry, maybe something new—be open to the Spirit’s leading!!

Growing together in the power of the Spirit!

Pastor April Dailey