Ryan Johnston

As a society, we generally let those who are in positions of power determine how things are going to go.  If you have a title or money or a reputation, then you’re the one in charge. 

But, I think it’s necessary that we let those who aren’t in those positions to make some important decisions too.  Let them have some power.  Let them have some say in how things are going to go.  And, as followers of Christ,  isn’t this how He would have done it?

Instead of getting together with all of your ministry friends, prayer group, Bible study group, or whoever else you might meet with to decide on ministry goals.  Why not go straight to those who need it the most?  The marginalized,  the outcasts, the ones who no one seems to care about.  Ask the ones who are in the trenches every day. 

It’s great that we want to help, but it’s more important that we help in the ways needed and not the ways we think are needed. 

Instead of helping someone hooked on drugs get off drugs cold turkey, first get them away from an environment that makes it easy to get drugs.  Maybe you want to help someone who’s jobless or homeless, but maybe they aren’t looking for a job or home right now, they’d be happy just having a warm meal and dry feet.

The people we are trying to help through ministry are in a much better position to tell us what needs to be done than those of us outside the situation.  Many times, those of us outside a situation see the overall need and what the ultimate goal of the ministry should be.  But, those that are going through those valleys can tell you what they need right now. 

If you get the chance, let the marginalized have a say. 

Have you done this?

Let me know.