Called To Serve

Updated May 2016

As a believer of Christ, a key concept that drives us through this life here in this world is the Calling. 2 Timothy 1:9 is a verse of central importance to explaining the concept of the Christian calling, provided here in context to include verses 8 through 10:

So do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord or of me his prisoner. Rather, join with me in suffering for the gospel, by the power of God.He has saved us and called us to a holy life—not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace. This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time, but it has now been revealed through the appearing of our Savior, Christ Jesus, who has destroyed death and has brought life and immortality to light through the gospel.

One good article dedicated to explaining the Christian Calling in depth is written by F B Hole at Stem Publishing titled “What is the Christian Calling?“.

I was first brought to Clayton Church of Christ by my parents when I was 2-3 years old, and subsequently grew up under the tutelage of Sunday School memory verse teachings. Having given my life to Christ as a Year Seven teenager, God unveiled His calling for me to serve at Clayton. Indeed, the concept of attending church as a selfless service to God so that He can use you to build His church is undoubtedly a key learning that marks a mature Spirit-filled believer. Consider and contrast this attitude to the church-hopping activities other Christians embark upon as they seek church as a means to their self-fulfilment.

For me, serving at Clayton over the years has been an evolving experience, around a core ministry in worship and music. The following list can be considered a testimony of service, one which I am truly thankful to God for allowing me to be a part of Him building His church:

1. Worship/Creative Arts Ministry
   1. Overhead projector duties (198/9x – 1995)
   2. Piano/keys (1990s)
   3. Puppets (1995-6)
   4. Vocals (2003 – current)
   5. Technology
2. Video Library Ministry (1991 – 1999)
3. House Church Group
   1. Worship/piano (1994 – 1998)
   2. Church lunches & communion (1994 – 1998)
4. Kids Holiday Program (1997)
5. Youth Group (Youth AsSalt, 1998 – 1999)
6. FOCUS (now known as UCC, 2000 – 2006)
   1. Worship team (2003 – 2006)
7. Surge / Young Working Adults (2007 – current)
   1. Cell/life group leader (2014 – current)
8. Technology
   1. Website (1999, 2003)
   2. General IT services (2013 – current)
9. Community (Out Ministry)
   1. Going Public (2015 – current)
   2. Operation Christmas Child (2013 – current)