Side by Side

At our family meeting last night we voted on two new members of the diaconal ministry. Frank and Cathy;  a husband and wife.  Time was limited for how many words of commendation and appreciation for Frank and Cathy could be spoken.  I didn't raise my hand soon enough and lost my chance.  So I thought I'd post my thoughts (in an extended form).

When Frank and Cathy first came to TFC two years ago it was obvious right from the start that these two individuals had hearts to serve.  

Frank loved serving men through personal man to man care. Frank has often provided rides, had lunches, etc. for men in need.  Frank has also served the whole body of men through the monthly Saturday morning "Men Ahead" breakfasts, and as an usher.  Basically whenever there's a job to be done Frank is there.  

Cathy has a heart for spiritual mothering.  I think many of us have felt Cathy's motherly love and concern.  Many, many times Cathy has asked me specific questions about my family which I thought would have been long forgotten.  But she hadn't.  Cathy also has served the women in the kitchen, in her caregroup, through the Lydia Ladies and in countless other ways .  

The thing that has really captured my attention about this couple is their growing desire to channel their ministries together.  They are seeing how they can serve Christ and the body with their God-given gifts, together.  Side by side.  Partners.  A team.  

Many times it is easy for a husband and wife to follow separate tracks of ministry.  They each enjoy what they are doing and encourage each other in the other's ministry.  This is good, but I believe, it could be better.  I believe Frank and Cathy are an example (and there are many other such examples in the church) of what it means to be "complementarian".   Each man and woman has value for how God has created them, and each has infinite value in how God has redeemed them. Each has strengths that helps the other.  Each has gifts given them through the Holy Spirit. Frank is the head of his home and Cathy as his wife, follows his lead.  Now the "completing" that has been functioning in their home is functioning in the life of our church.

Frank and Cathy you are a testimony of God's grace in your marriage.  Thank you for joyfully being willing to serve the body, side by side.   You are an example to us all.