Remembering My Ordination

The process had been clear, specific and planned with every detail. There would be singing, praying and admonishing that would all come publicly after a very careful private interrogation days before. The elders in my home church were keenly interested not only in my chosen vocation but my character that was needed for ministry. Mentors who had guided me in school and student ministry were there. Friends surrounded me with their interest and support. I was being set aside for Christian Ministry as a life vocation. In the course of that time of being deliberately set apart for ministry, there was a charge given to me, publicly about the task and ministry that was ahead. (I have used this same charge to others when I have had the privilege in sharing in their being set apart for ministry.)

“You have been called by God to the most glorious work on earth – the declaring of the truth of God that men and women, boys and girls might be saved.  The proclamation of Jesus Christ as the Savior of the world is both the most awesome and most joyous task a human being can assume.  Because of this privilege and responsibility, prepare like each sermon and each lesson will be your last one.   In a time when people have not esteemed ministry as high as they once did, your character and integrity will be scrutinized like never before.  The consistency of your example must be seen in and out of the pulpit, in and out of your home, on the mission field or reporting to the supporting churches, working or resting, laughing or crying.  Always seek to please the Lord in all you do, whether you address a crowd or a small group, your audience is an audience of One.  Resist with all of your might to please anyone else but God first.  When compliments come, accept them graciously – thanking God for the encouragement.  When the criticisms come, thank God for the strength He supplies to endure the critic and the criticism.  When the needs of people burden you down to despair, cast all your care on God.  When you stand at the grave of a friend, or a child,  do not be afraid to weep.   When the temptation to give up and quit plagues your soul, refresh your spirit with a song and a deep commitment to daily prayer.  In the midst of everyday toil, remember that you are called first and foremost to declare the Good News of Christ faithfully.  Expose the flock under your care to the Word of God with diligent and careful application.  Preach the Word.  It is the tool of the Holy Spirit that will enable careful teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness.  Expect the Spirit’s conviction and follow His direction.  Always seek God’s glory and honor and you will be found as a faithful servant of His.  May God abundantly bless you with faith and perseverance.  May His grace shine upon you and give you peace that surpasses all human understanding.  May the love of Christ dwell in you richly so that all who come to know you, will learn to love Him.”

And so I embarked on the journey of a lifetime and ministry that would take me across five states in Christian Ministry. And, you need to know as I remember my ordination, 48 years ago, I have never been sorry.  – Neil Norheim