Recently, a good friend of mine was stopped at church and asked by another church goer why I had attended a football game rather than going to the men's retreat at my church. This person knew I was involved with FCA and was the football chaplain at the school, but he was frustrated that I choose football over these men, and he expressed it to my buddy. My friend came to my aid quickly. He talked with this other man and quietly told him that ministry can take place in many places.

Paul understood what it meant to minister. Ministry does not have to happen in a church building itself; it can happen anywhere. Paul affirmed believers to work with all their might as unto the Lord, not for the praise of man. Jesus' life was filled with these ministry opportunities outside the churches of the day. He ministered to those a parties, on the streets, in the markets, wherever people were!

My friend relayed to the other man that I was ministering in the world of sports. And it just goes to show that ministry happens anywhere you choose to serve the Lord. For you it might be raking your neighbors' leaves when they are out of town, reaching out to someone at work who is struggling with personal issues, or simply praying with a friend who needs your help. Whatever the opportunity that is placed before you, take time to minister to the needs of those around you, and do it as unto the Lord, not for the praise of men. Could I have been blessed at the men's retreat? No question! But I was equally blessed by the ministry of that day.

Before you say anything, I definitely am NOT discouraging church participateion. No way! That is directed by the Lord. Be involved in your church and the ministries they provide, just don't feel bad about ministering outside of the church walls when necessary. Ministry happens where God is and where God has you at that moment. Keep your eyes open.