Ministry "Outside of the Box"

I just got home from my monthly prayer service at Waukehegan Manor (our local "Assisted Living Centre") and I am surprisingly energized. Why it is "surprising" is that it is Sunday afternoon, I have already lead and preached at a morning service, have just returned from a Manor service, and will be off to the start of a new "Video Series" in a few hours from now. This is not a relaxing day -- it is a draining one -- and YET I feel energized after the Manor service.

Why?

Because this kind of "outside the box" ministry is awesome and needed and transformative. This is not to say that "standardized, churchy" ministries are not these as well, but FOR ME outside of the box ministry is where we need to be headed. And don't get me wrong, a Sunday prayer service at an "old folks home" is not that radical. And yet, it is public. AND THIS IS THE KEY. When we (Christians) have the opportunity to witness to Jesus by praying with, caring for, and simply being with the public as recognizable disciples of Jesus Christ, satan freaks out! We are treading on what is traditionally considered as "his" territory.

As I prayed, sang hymns, and preached (a SHORT homily) to and with these folks today, orderlies were cleaning up the residents, nurses were doing their work, family members were coming and going...all while a priest was ministering in the open, front entrance of the Manor. Do you see what I am getting at...this is where the Church needs to be (also in the church buildings too, I suppose) more than ever (?).

Lord, empower us to minister outside the box! To your glory and honour and praise!

Amen.