We invite you to take a peek inside our weekly Light for the Way devotional series provided for staff.
By Chaplain Jen Johnson, Optage Hospice
“There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them. There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. There are different kinds of working, but in all of them and in everyone it is the same God at work.” —1 Corinthians 12:4-6, NIV
We live in a culture where nearly everyone has a cell phone. You can’t go anywhere without hearing someone’s phone ring. Sometimes we get so busy hearing rings and answering calls that we forget to listen to another important call that is coming our way: a call to serve God.
We might assume that call is reserved only for those in formal ministry. But a call to ministry doesn’t necessarily mean enrolling in seminary; it could mean serving his people in any capacity.
First Corinthians 12:4-7 tells us there are varieties of gifts, services and activities, but it is the same God who activates all of them, and everyone. To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good.
Each of us has gifts, each of us is called to serve! When God calls, we can respond in a way appropriate to our nature and our distinctive gifts. There is a great quotation from theologian Howard Thurman that says, “Don’t ask yourself what the world needs. Ask yourself what makes you come alive, and then go do that! Because what the world needs is people who have come alive.”
Look around at those near you, take a moment to think about the unique qualities they have. There is a great diversity in the gifts, talents and experiences of PHS employees. Next, ask yourself, what are my gifts? Where can I best serve God?
Finally, I leave you with this question: How can you answer God’s call to spread love in the hearts of those to whom you are sent to serve?
Pastor Jen Johnson serves as a chaplain and a supervisor with Optage Hospice. She began with PHS in 2015 as a clinical pastoral education (CPE) intern and joined the Optage Hospice team in 2016. Jen and her husband Greg reside in South Minneapolis along with a son, a daughter, a dog and a cat.
The Light for the Way series provides staff with an examination of a biblical reading to deepen our focus on scripture. Thank you for engaging with this series as we seek wisdom through prayer and reflection as a Christian Ministry.
Find more in the Light for the Way series:
Love one another
Get to know us: a Christian ministry
Introducing Light for the Way, a new devotional series
