Full Service

“Filler-up please” was a common phrase used in the day of ‘Full Service’ gas stations (and still today in the states of Oregon and New Jersey where it is required). How nice it was to pull into a gas station, hear the sound of the double bell chime to alert the attendant and then sit back and relax for a minute as your windows are cleaned, your oil is checked and your car is filled with gas. Full Serve, what a great idea.

Perhaps you are familiar with the phrase, “it takes a village to raise a child” but how about this concept, “it takes the body to run the church”. Now, I’m not just talking about one physical ministry located in your vicinity, I’m talking about all of us. We are the church and it takes all of us serving and working together for the purposes of God to make it work and see His purposes released here on earth as it is in Heaven. There are so many that don’t jump in because life has happened and they feel like they are not qualified or good enough. But that is just a lie from the enemy trying to stop you from partnering with the purposes of God. You are called to serve. You have not been disqualified. You do not need to get all your ducks in a row before you put your hand to the plow. Just plug in and be about the Father’s business. Connect with the body and serve. As you fill yourself with the powerful living Word of God, spend time in His presence (through worship and prayer), fellowship with faith filled believers, and serve, God will clean you up and build you up. It is God who qualifies you and the Holy Spirit who teaches you. As I am reflecting on this, I am reminded of Mary Magdalene. Often when people think about her they remember that she was delivered from many demons. But, her past did not disqualify her. After her deliverance, she served Jesus. She financially supported his ministry and physically served with a small group of ladies, in which her name was always mentioned first. She was there when he was crucified and helped to prepare his body for burial after his death. Mary was the first to see Jesus and speak with him after His resurrection. She gave her life to serve Jesus and his ministry because she valued all that he had done in her life. “Those who have been forgiven much, love much.” So my friends, I want to encourage you to take Mary’s lead, walk in humility and receive all the healing that Jesus has for you, no matter what it looks like and who is watching. Fill yourself with the Power of the Holy Spirit and serve His purposes with your whole life. You can be sure that He has much for you to accomplish for His glory. Don’t just watch the cars pull into the station, God has called you to ‘Full Service’. “Filler-up Please… and while your at it, can you check my tires?”