2,393 days and counting
by Captain Jessica Turner
What I feared the most about becoming an officer was attending events and being in group settings. Yep, you read that right. I know I can’t be the only one. There are so many large gatherings and programs to attend. As an introvert it can be overwhelming, and I can feel lost easily.
I wondered how I would connect with people. I’m not outgoing. I love ministry behind the scenes. The fear of speaking, leading and having to be the one other people look to for direction terrified me.
While you often hear about the larger ministries that take place, such as feeding programs, vacation Bible school or community outreaches, there are many other ministry opportunities that happen one-on-one. That’s where I find the most joy. There’s something special about those van rides home, Pathway of Hope pastoral care meetings, and check-in phone calls that allow me to get to know a person. It’s in those behind-the-scenes ministries I’ve been able to build trust with people and share how God is working in my life.
As officers, we have so many opportunities to be on the frontlines. We have opportunities to sit with people as they cry, to enter hospital rooms, and to pray for people, sharing some of the most vulnerable moments of their lives. It’s during those times we have an opportunity to share the gospel not just through words but through the way we live. Our presence and listening ear allow them to see God’s love and know we care.
God has shown me I don’t need to be outgoing. I don’t have to enjoy being in large groups either. I just have to love Him and be obedient. I can trust He will use me—introvert and all—to lead people to Him.
Friends, don’t allow your fears to keep you from the ministry God is calling you to! No matter your level of comfort, extrovert or introvert, God wants to use you. So many ministry opportunities await you. Someone is counting on your ministry.
Hebrews 13:20-21 (ESV): “Now may the God of peace who brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, the great shepherd of the sheep, by the blood of the eternal covenant, equip you with everything good that you may do his will, working in us that which is pleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen.”
