Resetting our Ministries: Becoming and Remaining Essential

COVID-19 and the surrounding media coverage have changed the world as we know it. It is believed that even after shelter in place restrictions are lifted that life will not return to the “norm” for quite some time. Ministries are not exempt; we too are finding ourselves in unchartered territory attempting to remain effective. Because many Governors have ordered restricted movement, with the exception of essential workers, I believe that we as the church must position ourselves to serve in this new season. The days of relying on the church building to draw people are no longer here. For preachers, the days of remaining behind the pulpit and not becoming immersed in the community have passed us by. It is time for a reset, a ministerial reset.

CHANGE THE PATTERNS: There is a need to address (change) patterns. It should be stressed that patterns that worked last season more than likely need to be addressed and changed in this season. Keep in mind that the Word remains the same, but now more than ever… the method will need to. Many have yet to embrace the technological advances that could be used at platforms simply because they’re not traditional. We will need to position ourselves to be a community resource, meeting the community where they are. This means that we will need to be seen OUTSIDE of our pulpits and offices.

ENCOURAGE KENOSIS: This term means, “the emptying of oneself”. Biblically this is shown by Jesus himself. In Philippians 2 Paul wrote, “Make your own attitude that of Christ Jesus, 6 who, existing in the form of God, did not consider equality with God as something to be used for His own advantage.[a]7 Instead He emptied Himself by assuming the form of a slave, taking on the likeness of men. Now, let’s consider this: it’s possible that we need to empty ourselves by releasing ourselves from old methods. Just because we have always done it, may not mean that we need to continue doing it. Become creative, shift leadership assignments around. Tap into the knowledge of young people. Get a pulse of the needs within your community.

BE DISCERNING WITH YOUR POUR: This season, if it’s not fruitful, cut it off... stop feeding it. Leaders, you can’t afford to be depleted this season and nothing will deplete a leader faster than pouring into a vessel that has a hole in it. Now more than ever it’s imperative that we shift our focus to what is working in this season and for this season. Again, it’s about becoming and remaining essential. So, the places you poured last season may not be a priority this season. A minor adjustment may prove to be beneficial not only in the immediate future but can set the template for long term sustainability.

I believe that this is the time for the church to stand and shine bright. We can do this! Let’s position ourselves to provide essential services to our communities, let’s serve!