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When my mother passed on, a friend spoke to me, “Let the church minister to you. They want to. And it will be good for them.” I did, and my relationship with the church I serve is stronger because they loved me through the time of loss. Yes, over the years I have learned that one can only rightly serve those whom he is willing to invite to serve him.
Henri J. M. Nouwen writes about the need to receive from others:
Often we are inclined to give, give, and give without asking anything in return. We may think this is a sign of generosity or even heroism. But it may be little more than a proud attitude….
There is a time to give and a time to receive. We need equal time for both if we want to live healthy lives. (Bread for the Journey)
Who ministers to you? Do you find it difficult to let others serve you? Do you find it easy to let others serve you? Do you feel you are receiving enough support, or not? If not, whom can you share this with? Is there someone you could ask to be a spiritual companion to help you receive the attention, prayer, and compassion you need to be a more balanced and healthy person?
Prayer
Spirit of God, grant me equal grace to give and receive. Bring into my life those persons who can minister to me. Grant me the humbleness to receive them gladly and with gratitude. Amen.
OneLife Ministries is a pastoral outreach and nurture ministry of the First United Methodist Church, Fort Meade, FL. For Spiritual Direction, Pastoral Counseling, spiritual formation workshops, Christian meditation retreats, or more information about OneLife, write Rev. Dr. Brian K. Wilcox at briankwilcox@comcast.net.
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