In Ephesians 3:7, Paul wrote, “I became a servant of this gospel by the gift of God’s grace given me through the working of his power.”

While this column is intended to be an inspirational piece, this time I want to make it a little more personal. Jamie and I recently celebrated the completion of our seventh year in Cassville. I consider my role as pastor to be much more than a job. Like Paul, I consider it a gift from God that I have the privilege of working in ministry.

As I was reflecting on that a few days ago, I jotted down some highlights of my day. The list captures some of the remarkable joys that we in ministry get to be a part of. I enjoy the varied activities that fill up my days.

The day began with a mentorship meeting with a young man who I had the privilege of baptizing on Easter Sunday. It is exciting to be a part of his discipleship process. Shortly after that meeting, I was serving communion to one of our older folks who is mostly restricted to her home due to physical limitations. This was an especially holy time for me given that we recently walked through the death of her husband together.

The next thing on the agenda was visiting with a woman who had a recent medical situation that resulted in missed work. Thanks to the generosity of folks who have contributed to an assistance fund, I was able to give her a check to help with rent and relieve the burden for her as she gets back on her feet. 

After that I had the special privilege of baptizing a friend who recently professed his faith in Christ. He is older than I am and has had some health issues. The most practical way to get him under water was to use his swimming pool, so that was fun and a little unusual.

That was followed by Vacation Bible School at our church. Since I didn’t have a lot of responsibilities, I was able to roam around and enjoy what was going on. One of the sweetest moments of the day was when two very young girls quoted their memory verse to me: Psalm 23:1-3. 

I was struck by the adaptation that one of them made when she altered verse 3 to say, “He restores my heart.” How beautiful to see these little ones developing an understanding of God as a trustworthy and loving presence to be with them and guide them through all the ups and downs of life.

After VBS, I got in on the last half of a Jobs For Life class that is currently happening at Life Change. Here again, as a mentor, I get a front row seat to witness people moving forward in life in positive ways as they cooperate with God’s ongoing work in them.

This was a full day – in more ways than one. You may not be an ordained minister where you get to do this sort of stuff for your job, but all of us can experience the joy that comes with being a part of people’s lives. If you feel like you could use more fulfillment and meaning in your life, consider jumping into some new opportunity to serve. Help with a kids’ program, volunteer at the pantry, or find whatever niche it is that brings joy to you and others. Those opportunities are gifts and they can truly add richness to your life.

Finally, let me say thank you to all of you folks in this community who have made our first seven years here such a blessing. I thank God for you and for the privilege of pastoring here! 

Jeff Fugitt is the pastor of Cassville United Methodist Church, located at 601 Gravel Street in Cassville. He may be reached at 417-847-2328 or [email protected].