Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility regard others as better than yourselves. Let each of you look not to your own interests, but to the interests of others. Philippians 2:3-11 (excerpt)

When I think about humble service—those extraordinary ordinary saints in my life, my mind quickly moves to the women of Second Presbyterian Church. As a new addition to the church family, I quickly learned that the women of our church are the source of most of the information I need to pastor our beloved flock. These saints are there when I need to know the little things—where everything is stored, when special services are to be conducted, and the correct person to approach to make church happen. 

They are also there for the big tasks of the church.  Through their dedication and love for the Lord and our church family, they know our rich history, milestones, traditions, and nuances that give Second Presbyterian its distinct personality and culture.  These dear saints are also the heart of our congregation.  If someone is in need or has a prayer concern, our women are usually the first to make sure their needs are known and met. They faithfully visit our home-bound members, deliver meals to the sick and the bereaved, and are the first to welcome new faces as they enter the church. They are our prayer warriors. These “ordinary saints” are the ones who give words of encouragement to others when they need it most and they live out the mission of the church without hesitation. Our women study and teach God’s Word with dedication and lead with energy and imagination.

Through all of these deeds of compassion, love, and devotion, these saints never seek glory. They quietly follow Christ’s lead as they live out their call to be his disciples. Often behind the scenes, they are the people who shine with and reflect Christ’s light most brightly. 

Prayer:
Dear Lord, Thank you for the secret saints of our church. Thank you for their deeds of compassion, their loving hearts, their faithfulness, and their example of selfless service in Christ’s name. Bless us all as we move through this season and reflect on what it means to live out our call as disciples of our Risen Lord, giving him all the honor and glory. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

Rev. David Howell

About the Contributor

Reverend David Howell has been blessed to serve as Stated Supply Pastor of Second Presbyterian for 15 months. He thanks God for the gift of his wife Angie and wonderful children, Katherine and Will