Remember God's Faithful People
Scripture Reading — Matthew 25:14-21
"Well done ... ! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things." Matt. 25:21
One evening when I met with some people from a group of small churches in a rural area, I couldn't help being impressed by the faithfulness of God's people. The people who came were volunteers, some of them from churches that were struggling to keep going. There was little opportunity for growth because of limited resources and remote locations.
But these people did not come for recognition. They were not looking to be thanked. They came because they love the Lord and his church. They came because they are faithful to the God who has always been faithful to them. And someday these faithful members will hear the words "Well done, good and faithful servants! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things."
Let me invite you to gather with God's church this coming Sunday. Take a good look around at your fellow worshipers, and thank God for the willing people who give of their time, talents, and resources. If you are part of a growing congregation, remember to pray for smaller churches that faithfully continue to serve their Lord wherever he has placed them. And if sometimes you feel like giving up because no one seems to notice, remember that God does notice--and someday you too will hear the words "Well done ... !"
Father, thank you for the many people in your church who serve faithfully. Encourage them with your promises, and help us all to build your church for Jesus' sake. Amen.
About the author — Arthur J. Schoonveld
Rev. Art Schoonveld is a retired minister in the Christian Reformed Church. Before retiring in 2001, he served churches in California, Illinois, and Michigan. Since his retirement he has worked part-time for the denomination and has served as an interim pastor. Art and his wife, Anita, have four children and nine grandchildren.
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