Called to ministry
Reflection time
Bible passages
Spend some time reflecting on this passage.
Option 1 - Analytical reflection
How do the friends see Jesus? Why do they make such an effort to get their friend close to Jesus?
What sort of ministry did Jesus have?
Do you think Jesus ever felt tired or worn out from ministry?
How did he refresh and stay strong with all the ministry demands he faced?
How is our ministry different from Jesus?
How is it the same?
How can I “be Jesus” to friends, family, colleagues, people I meet?
Who is being “lowered” into my presence?
What other opportunities are there for me to use my gifts, skills, qualifications and resources to minister?
How am I balancing the needs of ministry with my own physical, emotional, relational and spiritual health?
Option 2 - Immersive reflection
Read through the passage and try to immerse yourself in the scene. What do you see, hear, smell?
Imagine you are the man on the stretcher. What do do you think? How do you feel?
Imagine you are one of the friends trying to get the man to see Jesus. What do do you think? How do you feel?
Imagine you are in the room with Jesus and see the man coming through the ceiling. What do you think? How do you feel?
Imagine seeing Jesus heal the man? What do you think? How do you feel?
Are there are any other things that strike you from immersing yourself in this scene?
Action time
What practical steps would you like to take to live out you calling to ministry?
Central practices
Ministry inside church
With the capacity I have at the moment, am I happy with my level of contribution at church?
What am I doing in terms of financial giving, formal ministry (eg small group leader), informal ministry (eg hospitality, encouragement, prayer).
Are there any areas I would like to change (increase, decrease, explore new things)?
Ministry outside church
What are the areas where I am ministering outside church? (eg family, friends, work, volunteering, financial giving)
Am I happy with my level of commitment in those different areas?
Are there any areas I would like to change (increase, decrease, explore new things)?
Note down the practical steps you are planning to take.