EXTENDING THE MINISTRY OF FBCG TO…
“The God who made the world and all things in it, since He is Lord of heaven and earth, does not dwell in temples made with hands; nor is He served by human hands, as though He needed anything…” (Acts 17:24-25).
This passage of scripture reminds us that God does not need our “worship”, nor does He require an elaborate place to dwell in, in order to be worshiped. This scripture also reminds us that while ministry does happen in the church, the majority of ministry should be taking place outside its four walls. God is not limited to one structure, nor should the ministry He gives us be limited to a certain facility. I would like to take this opportunity to share with you an opportunity God has given me to expand the ministry of First Baptist Church of Greenwood too…
MY SHORT STORY
Over the last few years, the Lord has placed a burden on me to not only serve God but also to serve my country. Some time ago, I inquired about becoming a Chaplain in the National Guard. The door never opened, and I assumed this was not of God until I bumped into a local youth pastor who currently serves as a Chaplain in the Air Force Reserves. I asked a few questions, and my interests quickly peaked again.
As I researched this ministry, discussed it with Deanna, and sought the Lord’s leadership, the door never closed as it had earlier. Finally, after discussing the issue with our personnel committee and after a vote of support from the church, I submitted my application in April 2010. After loads of paperwork, an interview, and an oath of office, I am now a Chaplain in the United States Air Force Reserves.
A BRIEF EXPLANATION
What does this mean for me, for my family, and for you? First, I must fulfill two training sessions within the next two years. I will attend a four-week Commissioned Officer Training soon and a six-week Chaplaincy Training some time next year. Secondly, it means I must fulfill my commitment to the USAFR and serve 24 days each year. I will serve a two-week period (12 days) and then work out a schedule to serve another 12 days. These 12 days could be consecutive or divided throughout the year. During this time, youth ministry at FBCG will continue without any disruption because of dedicated sponsors who love working with teenagers. Of course, this commitment may demand deployment. If this is the case, someone will be brought in to serve in my place and take charge of youth responsibilities.
In terms of my family, I am grateful for Deanna who has supported me for the last 10 years of youth ministry and who is now looking forward along with me to the doors of ministry the Lord will open. She is quite the household manager, so things should operate as normal around the Dawson ranch. There will, however, be opportunities to minister to her and my boys (talk to me for more details).
What about you, my church family. In the past few months, I have started to see the value of military chaplains. As I have interviewed, asked questions, and researched, I have realized the Church often is clueless about military life and how to minister to those who serve our country. This opportunity also gives me a chance to share with you the spiritual needs and conditions of our military men and women. This may even translate into an opportunity for missions partnering with the base Chapel (Vacation Bible School, Back Yard Bible Clubs, etc).
What a privilege it is to serve the local church and now my country. I ask you to pray as new adventures in the gospel ministry await us…that would be me, my family, and you!
Blessings,
Nathan
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