Drink Offerings
Two older ministers were talking at a convention. In their day they had “important” positions in church life. Today, they are never even consulted about printing the bulletin. Young preachers were scurrying about. “Look at those kids,” one of the old ministers said. “They have no idea who we are.”
“No,” the other responded; “and it probably wouldn’t make any difference if they knew.”
It is easy for Christian servants to become woeful when they age. It is especially so if one has had some semblance of success. Once they received earthly applause; today, no one recognizes their name.
It is also true for those who served on the “downside.” I think of the pastor who all his life served in places no one else wanted. Participation was often small; remuneration was meager; and recognition was nonexistent. It would be easy for him/her to think, “for what?”
The conclusion of one’s ministry ought not be sad or depressing. Some become bitter. Others wallow in self-pity. The apostle Paul, who had ample reason to be despondent, viewed his ministry as a drink offering. (2Timothy 4:6ff) A thirsty child of God is offered a drink; rather than gulp it down, he pours it out as a sacrifice to God.
An architect can view the structures he engineered; a physician can count the number of his successful surgeries; but God’s servants may have difficulty seeing success. Are you wondering, “Did my ministry accomplish anything?” Are you searching for affirmation? Paul told young Timothy, “Fulfill your ministry.” To us old guys, that means keep working to the end. Then, view your years of service as a drink offering poured out for a loving God.
