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In the Pentecost season we think about the birth and growth of the Christian church. As we consider the Lord’s church, we know that it is not just another organization, but it is the “body of Christ” brought together by the Spirit of God. In His church, the people of God gather around His Word and sacraments to confess sin, hear the wonderful word of forgiveness, and be empowered by God’s Spirit to live, share and grow in our faith daily.

What a wonderful blessing it is when our ministries are peaceful. The Apostle Paul encourages us to “maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace”, Eph. 4:3. While we would wish for peace in our ministries, sometimes it can be very elusive, and the reality is that conflict arises, and too often is a regular part of our lives and ministries.

Healthy ministries are not immune from dealing with conflict, but guided by God’s Word, they are more effective in dealing with that conflict. Ted Kober, in his book “Built on the Rock,” helps us to understand “Healthy churches are those whose leadership and membership are solidly grounded in Christ, nourished by God’s Word, and able to apply it to their lives”. (p. 14) Would you like to learn more? The Pentecost season could provide an opportunity for church workers and lay leaders to utilize Kober’s valuable resource.

May God bless our ministries with peace and health, and may we continually search the scriptures!