This phrase is taken from Isaiah 6 verse 8, and each time I hear it read, I am reminded of an occasion when I attended a missionary conference at the Methodist Central Hall in London. The large room was filled to capacity, and for me, one of the highlights was to watch and hear the organist playing the lovely instrument.
At one session, one of the missionaries gave his report and mentioned that many women were serving God on the mission field, but there seemed to be a shortage of men. After he had completed his report, the chairman stood and said, ”You know why there are fewer men on the mission field? It is because they are at home saying,’ Lord, here am I, send my sister!’” An adaptation of Isaiah’s response.
Many of us have been, and probably still are, in churches where faithful men and women are still undertaking duties, because no one has volunteered to take on that role. I belong to an organisation where the treasurer has been wanting to retire for over eight years! He hasn’t resigned because he knows that if he does, it is likely the organisation will end.
Several years ago, I was treasurer for another group, and the chairman and I suddenly realised that for too long we had been acting without a committee quorum of four. Calling an emergency meeting, we asked all those attending if they wanted the organisation to continue. An overwhelming majority voted in favour. When the chairman asked for volunteers, no one responded, and subsequently the organisation was wound up.
Many churches have elderly congregations, and the bank of volunteers is small, so what is the answer? I will leave readers to ponder this challenge, and even consider volunteering!
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, we thank you for the many Christians who have been faithfully serving you for many years. You know the challenges facing those who wish to retire but have no one to provide relief. Please help all in such a position, and those who serve with them, to know your wisdom and guidance. AMEN.