Sunday, April 24, 2011

Oh the Times, They are a Changin'

Our church has a lay ministry. Not only doesn't the bishop receive pay for his service, but none of the positions in our church are paid. I have been serving for the past 3 years as a seminary teacher for our teenagers. But today I began a new calling and adventure. I will be the Relief Society president for our Ward (congregation). The Relief Society is the largest women's organization in the world. I will oversee the Sunday gospel instruction of the women, the welfare needs of the members of the congregation, a monthly visiting program. and any activities we carry out. That might sound like a lot, but I have two counselors and a secretary to help, as well as teachers, and activity board members and such.

I did this once before for about 3 1/2 - 4 years, but it's been awhile, so I am kind of out of the swing of things. But I'm jumping in with both feet, so I think I'll remember quickly! Whenever I get nervous, I try to remember that God will help when I need help. This takes faith! :)

I asked permission to finish teaching this last month of seminary, but I haven't heard back yet. I am only scheduled to teach two more weeks, so I would like to be able to finish that up so as to not disrupt the kids too much.

They say a change is as good as a rest. I'm not sure that is true if, for example, you go from doing push ups to running a marathon. It's still a lot of work! lol But it will be nice to shift gears and focus on the people of my Ward. It gives me an opportunity to learn Christlike service and love. My thinking has been like that spoken of in the book of Mormon, that we can never get the Lord in debt to us. When we obey His commandments, He blesses us. So we are still in debt. Even if we were to serve Him our entire lives, we have to remember that He gave us this life in the first place, so we are still in debt! So I look at my service more of as a chance to show gratitude for all the blessings I have already received. And I'm still in debt to God. :)

5 comments:

Grannymar said...

Enjoy the new experience.

Rummuser said...

Congratulations. Yes, we are in debt and whatever we can do to repay is much appreciated.

Nene said...

I think it's exciting for you! It's a rewarding experience, although tiring, as you well know.

Inklings said...

I don't know whether to congratulate you or offer sympathy. :0) But you will do great.

Amber said...

I think you will be great! You will do good things and make a great difference!