Well it was one of those challenging days. One where the Lord confirms you are ready for the challenge and then it comes at you. I recieved a complement from a co-worker today on my heart to serve and be dependable. She is a believer and I explained it is only because of the Lord’s faithfulness. The gift and the calling are both from Him and for Him. Less than an hour later the challenge came. As you may have read in yesterday’s blog, our school secretary had emergency surgery on Friday and is in the hospital. We learned today that more than likely she will be out for six weeks to recover. Until we can get a temp into fill in, I will be covering her duties (purchase orders, time clock, payroll, etc). I went to our district office for some training this afternoon. It was a quick overview in two areas. I know the Lord has me here for such a time as this. It is a real challenge, but I know the Lord is able and faithful. I have been challenged so much in my job this year. It has been in very good ways. I have had to make the conscious effort to yield them to the Lord and try my best to humbily rely on Him. It’s not easy, not fun at times, but I know it is for my good. More that all that I know it is for His glory. I know that people (believers and non-believers alike) are watching my walk with the Lord. I pray each day that they see less of me and more of Jesus.
Today was just one more reminder of the vision/calling the Lord has given me. You read the title of my blog and you may wonder why I called it Chaplain Gentry’s Blog. You can read the about me section, but I’ll share here too. Back in the summer of 2002, I was searching for a new vocation. I was out of work. During that search, the Lord gave me a mental picture of my calling. The Lord has always had a calling of service and helps on my life. The picture He gave me that summer was that of a Marine chaplain (bear with me I know that there are no chaplains who are Marines they are Navy). But the picture was that of a man who went into battle and served along side the men. In the midst of the warfare he served them, prayed with an for them, and encouraged them. All the events of the last year have been a reminder of that calling on my life. I’m humbled to be used by the Lord in my school and district. I’m so in awe that the Lord has me in a vocation that I love, challenges and all. I will probably never serve in the United States armed services. I have a high respect for the men and women who do (some of my relatives have served and some are serving now). But I serve in the armed forces of the Lord and right now He has me serving in the branch of education. It is a calling and I’m glad to be a light, witness and an encouragement there.
I’ve Been Crucified With Christ
by Robin Mark
I’ve been crucified with Christ
I’ve been crucified with Christ
I no longer live, but Christ lives in me
I live by faith in the Son of God
Who loved me and gave Himself for me
Thanks for that encouraging word, Geoff! You are a blessing to the body of Christ. Love, Mark
Hi Geoff! I just read this today and wanted to tell you that I will be praying for you as you fill in for the secretary that is recovering. I pray that your learning curve for the extra tasks assigned to you will be short, and that the Lord will prosper “everything your hands find to do.” Blessings!