Editorial Note: This welcome to the gospel ministry was given as part of the dedicatory service of the December 2003 graduating class at the Andrews University Seventh-day Adventist Theological Seminary, Berrien Springs, Michigan. The closing sentence of the address is from the final verse of the song, "So Send I You," which was sung at the conclusion of the service.
I realize that some of you have already served as pastors, and some will be just starting. In either case you are all graduating from the seminary. When I was asked to give this "welcome to ministry," I began to think about what it is that I am welcoming you to. Here are some reflections growing out of my 18 years of pastoral ministry.
Welcome to the greatest life you could ever be called to live. It is a life, not a job.
Welcome to living in a glass house. Let it remind you to be authentic, genuine, and honest.
Welcome to the joy you will receive when you are told that your sermon made a difference in someone's life. Let it remind you that the hours spent in preparation are worth it.
Welcome to the criticism you will receive when you are told that your sermons have moved to meddling in people's lives. Let it remind you that the message we preach is not to help people feel at home in this world but to help them have a home with God.
Welcome to the joy of dedicating a child. Let it remind you of your own children, and let them know that they are a priority in your life.
Welcome to the joy of performing a wedding. Let it remind you of the sacredness of your vows.
Welcome to the joy of baptizing someone into the fellowship of Jesus Christ and His body of believers. Let it remind you of the value God places on others and that finding lost children is the passion of God's heart.
Welcome to the role of comforter as you mourn with those who grieve. Let it remind you that your task is to prepare people for eternity.
Welcome to exhausting days. Let them remind you that your call is to equip the saints for ministry. Multiply yourself.
Welcome to days when you are so involved with others that you forget to eat. Let it remind you that the joy of your journey is food that others often know nothing of.
Welcome to the joy of serving. Let it remind you to disciple others so that they will also have the joy of serving.
Welcome to some lonely times on your journey. Let it remind you of your colleagues in ministry. Pick up the phone, drive some distance, seek fellowship and accountability.
Welcome to notes of appreciation. Let it remind you that the members of your congregation welcome those (handwritten) notes too.
Welcome to technical difficulties with the PA system and PowerPoint. Let them remind you that God's word says, "Not by mic nor by PowerPoint, but by My Spirit, says the Lord."
Welcome to a "job" where you get paid to study and pray. Let it remind you that it is a holy task.
Welcome to personal losses, struggles, and mistakes. Let them remind you that God's Word is sure. With every comfort you receive from God, He will be able to use you in ways you never imagined.
Welcome to dreams and visions that are bigger than you and seemingly impossible to fulfill. Let them remind you that accomplishing God's purpose is not about your degree, your competence, or your talents, but about your surrender and dependence on God.
Welcome to serving the Master. Remember, someday He will say, "Well done, My faithful servant. Come share My throne, My kingdom, and My crown."
