Acts 6:1-6

Now during those days, when the disciples were increasing in number, the Hellenists complained against the Hebrews because their widows were being neglected in the daily distribution of food. And the twelve called together the whole community of the disciples and said, “It is not right that we should neglect the word of God in order to wait on tables. Therefore, friends, select from among yourselves seven men of good standing, full of the Spirit and of wisdom, whom we may appoint to this task, while we, for our part, will devote ourselves to prayer and to serving the word.” What they said pleased the whole community, and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and the Holy Spirit, together with Philip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolaus, a proselyte of Antioch. They had these men stand before the apostles, who prayed and laid their hands on them.

So early into the life of the Church and already it's clear that there's more work to be done than the apostles can do on their own.

Of course, I take a tiny bit of exception to the twelve saying "it is not right that we should neglect the Word of God in order to wait on tables." Sadly, I think sentences like this have led many in and out of the church to think that the only important job was the priest's or pastor's or preacher's job.

But it isn't.

And the Word of God leaves lots of room for waiting on tables.

And serving at food serving lines.

And cleaning up after preschoolers running around Sunday School.

And making the coffee.

And leading the meeting.

And singing in the choir.

And being the church sexton.

And giving rides to shut-ins.

And closing the church up at night.

And paying the bills.

And all the many, many things that happen IN...

And OUT...

Of a church every week.

So remember when you feel like whatever calling or vocation that you have in the world isn't as true calling (like a pastor might have). Remember that Stephen was called to feed the widows and orphans.

And Stephen, we will learn, served like no other.

Lord, you have called me to ventures which serve your world. May each time I serve be a blessing to myself and to others and may I always serve with a heart brimming with joy. Amen.