In Exodus 35 preparations were being made to build and furnish the Tabernacle in the Wilderness.  For the Tabernacle to become a reality, workers and supplies were needed.  We read about men who were filled with the Spirit of God in wisdom, in understanding, in knowledge, and in all manner of workmanship (vv31-35).  These men were gifted by God in architecture, design, construction, and so on.  We also read about women who were gifted by God in spinning and sewing (vv25-26).  Others who were not gifted in those particular areas participated through their giving.  All these worked under the leadership of Moses to erect and furnish the Tabernacle for ministry.

Ministry is a very practical thing.  It utilizes both spiritual and natural gifts.  Sometimes we think of ministry only in terms of spiritual giftings like teaching and preaching, singing, evangelism, operating in the Spiritual Gifts, and so on.  Obviously, those are all very important and needed ministries.  But so are the ministries that require our natural giftings. 

For example, several women have worked alongside Sandy Klug using their natural gift for sewing to make 250 pillow case dresses and shorts for the children of the Dominican Republic.  What a wonderful use of a natural gift!  For the last few weeks Lynda Van Bibber, Karen Droke, Diane Reed, and other ladies have used their natural gift for cleaning and organizing to work at the Church Ministry Center (formerly known as the Church House), preparing it for the Water Baptismal service conducted there last Sunday night, and for our future ministry plans.  Kevin and Rebecca Murphy are using their natural gift of pool service to clean and maintain the pool at the CMC.  John Baker used his natural gift in painting to refresh the church walls, and Steve Reed used his natural gift to power wash and repaint the walkways in front of the church.  Thanks to these and the many others who are using their spiritual and natural gifts to serve the Lord through the context of this His church.

In a few weeks we will have the opportunity to do what the children of Israel did in Exodus 35.  The Church House was recently vacated to make room for increased ministry activity (thus the new name – Church Ministry Center).  On Sunday night, April 15th, at 6:00, we are having a shower/reception/dedication service at the CMC.  The purpose of the shower is to stock and furnish the CMC with needed items for ministry.  We are registered at Target and at Bed, Bath, & Beyond.  You can also pick up information at the church concerning items that are needed. 

In Exodus the people were so enthusiastic in the giving they had to be restrained.  Imagine that!  They gave more than enough.  I pray that like the Children of Israel (v29), we will be compelled by a willing heart to give and serve.  We have some exciting plans for the future of the CMC.  I look forward to seeing you there Sunday night, April 15th, at this beautiful property the Lord gave to our church for the work of the ministry and the glory of God.

Pastor Todd Weston