Yesterday ... I wondered where my ministry was, and what it should look like.
I KNOW that my husband and children are my primary ministry, and I rejoice in that ... but I also don't want to become closed to other ministry opportunities.
Today ...
... I received several emails confirming that God is definitely using me in the blogging world, to bring encouragement. This IS a part of my ministry (even if I never meet those that I minister to).
... a close friend passed away. He was very much an "adopted Grandpa" to our children, for the past 18 years. Now, I process how I can minister to his family (who have all become extended family to us). They don't live close by, but I so want to DO something for them.
... one of my "adopted" young adult children, shared that she needs me. She was in Africa from January - August. When she came back, my older girls were all gone. So, while she needed us, she didn't quite know how to let us know that. Since Carissa is home for a visit, Miss Kati spent the day with Carissa (and, thus, dinner and a movie with our family). Carissa fell asleep during the movie (exhausted from jet lag), so I got to drive Kati home. For the past 3 months, I have known that "I should call Kati", but I haven't done it. Tonight ... I had to apologize. (So glad my Daddy taught me how.)
... a friend emailed and invited me out for coffee (yea ... an adult conversation). She shared why she has pulled away from her close friendships, and told me that she realized that she does need her friends.
... while I still pray that my writing and speaking ministry will "take off" and "do great things for the Lord" ... I also know that God IS using me, right where He has me ... here at home ... at the coffee shop ... in the blogging world ... with friends that don't live close by ....
Thank You Lord!
Welcome to Our Journey of Faith. My blog is a place where I share the joys and trials of living a faith-filled life as the mother of an extra large (12 children) homeschooling family, and my prayer is that it brings encouragement to others to live their lives as an adventure of faith, as well.
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Laurel,
ReplyDeleteI often wonder about this too. When the Lord blesses us with many children, it is obvious what our primary ministry is, but what else? What more are we called to do? I am in a season of seeking the Lord about that too.
Happy wedding planning - we'll have to watch each other's blogs as we all move toward June. :-)
Blessings,
Lisa
I just realized I wasn't signed in as Thankfulmom so you might know who left you a comment. Here I am with my proper "ID".
ReplyDeleteLisa
I was so happy to read this post just now. Yesterday, when I read your post, I thought about all the ways you ARE ministering outside your family. I'm glad the Lord reminded you of those areas today!
ReplyDeleteYou are such a blessing!!!
As a fellow mom of a large family (5 bio, 6 adopted), I am encouraged at your realization of how God brings us a ministry without us really seeking one out. He is at work! My goal is to be a willing, available vessel.
ReplyDeleteI think it was Hudson Taylor that said something about a ministry being the "fruit of a disciplined life" vs. something you need to purposely seek to find. Being faithful in the small things is a huge ministry and testimony to others. You sound like you're doing great :)
Debbie
www.cheaperbythebakersdozen.blogspot.com