I was intrigued by an interview with an Olympic female weightlifter. In some sports, Olympic champions find fame and fortune, endorsements, media popularity, and financial success. Apparently, for females, weightlifting is not one of those sports. The interviewee described months of living on a limited income in order to train and prepare for the Olympics. Her explanation of why she was willing to endure such hardship was simple: “It’s what I do.” She was paying the price for her commitment and desire to do something she thought important, a challenge she described as “bigger than I am.”
I could not help by think of parallels in ministry and Christian service. I am glad those who serve in ministry in various ways are being remunerated at comparatively higher levels than in the past. Frankly, some ministers are paid quite handsomely. Church is big business. But I fear that somewhere along the way we may have lost our way. Ultimately, the best description of Christian ministry and service is that “it’s what I do.” I preach and serve because of a commitment, regardless of the sacrifice required, because of God’s calling to be involved in something bigger than I am.
I think also of parallels in Christian living. Ultimately, we live out our commitment to Christ because it is who we are and what we do, a natural part of the rhythms of our lives.
Our Christian walk is what we do, because of who we are. Plain and simple.