Called and Sent
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Jesus sent them out with the following instructions,
"Go...I am sending you" -- Matthew 10:5, 17
I ask for your prayers as I gather this week with the Cabinet for the primary appointing session for 2010-2011. This work is entrusted to us by the church, and we enter into it with a spirit of humility, seeking God's guidance, engaging your advisory wisdom, and praying for each clergy and each church by name.
Itineracy - the movement of clergy in ministry from place to place -- is scripturally based. Jesus called people to follow him. Jesus then sent them out to proclaim good news, to heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse the leper and cast out demons. They were to go, bearing Christ's life and power and promise.
We believe that clergy are called by God for ministry in the United Methodist Church. Clergy enter into a covenant of leadership and service. Clergy are then appointed to their particular place of ministry.
In Acts 13, the sending of Paul and Barnabas is a Biblical model of our way of deploying clergy. While they were worshipping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, "Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them." Then after fasting and praying they laid their hands on them and sent them off."
We give thanks for all today who have heard the call of Christ. May we be continually alert to the call of God -- the call to serve with humility and strength, wherever God calls us, wherever we are sent, wherever we go.
With gratitude for your partnership in Christ's ministry,
Hope Morgan Ward |
