What Is Your Purpose?

We had an interesting event happen in our weekend celebration this past Sunday. The mother of one of Antioch's members fainted during the message by Spencer Garner, a missionary we support from Mongolia. Our plans for worship were suspended for about 20 minutes as we waited for the paramedics to arrive. I have to admit that I have no formal training for what to do in these circumstances.

911 was called... chairs and people were moved from around Mary Newman so she could get some air... Spencer sat down and waited to continue... we all prayed... and then something really awesome happened. The people in our church who are experienced medical professionals went to work while we waited for the ambulance. There were no less than 4-5 people who knew what to do that responded to the scene. There were people around who were not medical professionals who also assisted as they could. There was even a woman who showed up in the lobby because she didn't know what time our worship started, but when she found out something was going on, she began to ask questions. I told her and asked her if she was a nurse. She said, "yes", and this woman whom I have never met went into the auditorium and began to help with the situation. Again, I felt helpless, but if I had tried to do anything, I would have just been in the way.

We received an e-mail from Jennifer Stier, Mary's daughter, and I want to share it with you:

"Just a brief update on my mom, Mary Katherine Newman, who became ill during Sunday's service: She was taken to Southwest Medical Center and was admitted for further testing. A stroke has been ruled out, but they are looking for an underlying cause for her fainting. We cannot thank all of you enough for your assistance and your prayers Sunday morning. When I think of all the kindness shown us, I know why I have stayed in this fellowship for over 26 years."

I have reflected on this event the past two days, and it reminds me that God has wired each of us with gifts and talents and passions for moments such as this one. You might not see this as a spiritual event, but I see it as the Body of Christ in action. Everyone who helped Sunday should realize that they are living out their purpose in ministry when they act like they did. Each of us should ask ourselves these questions: "What am I good at?" "What do I like to do?" "What desire burns in my soul?" This might change from day to day or from week to week, but when you see an opportunity where you are moved to act, don't hesitate! It might be in that event that you find your divine purpose! This is the Body of Christ being the Body of Christ! I couldn't be any prouder of Antioch than I am today!