New Monmouth Musings: What Group Are You In-50%, 40%, or 10%?

Dear Friends,

Many of us have heard of the 80-20 Principle which states that 80 percent of the work in any organization will be done by 20 percent of the people. However, I recently read a recent Gallup poll that suggests that the working few are even fewer than this poll would suggest.

The Gallup poll taken a few years ago suggests that only 10 percent of church members will be actively involved in some aspect of ministry. The same poll also revealed that 50 percent of church members won’t serve in any capacity, no matter what you try to do to enlist their involvement.  So that leaves 40 percent of the church who would willingly serve if given the opportunity.

Shortly after reading this, I had a dream-seriously-and I imagined I was standing before the congregation and during my sermon I asked by a show of hands how many would love to do something for the church, and guess what? Every hand was raised. It was a pastor’s dream until I realized it was just that, only a dream. Yes, there was some congregational fibbing going on. Some who raised their hands weren’t serious about service; they only raised their hands because they had been shamed into service.

Now let me say this about those in the 50 percent category. They may be no less spiritual, or no less committed than others in the congregation. They love Jesus like others in the church, but they may have decided to invest their time in non-church activities. Hopefully, those in this 50 percent category will one day discover the joy that springs from serving with others where lasting relationships are formed and friendships are fashioned. However, if statistics are true, this may never happen.

Now for those in the 10 percent category, let me say thanks for the ways you have chosen to serve. This church would not be what it is today without your unselfish service, and for that service we are most thankful.

Now if you are among the 40 percent who would like to serve in some capacity but have never been asked or who have wondered what you could do, let me suggest a few places where you might begin.

There is always a need for people to help with the transportation of our senior saints, who need rides to and from church. Some of them have need for light shopping, and others would just love a personal visit.  There are also members living in nursing homes or assisted living facilities, who would be overjoyed to know that someone cared enough to spend a few minutes of their time with them.

There are opportunities to provide meals for those coming home from the hospital, or who because of some health challenges, might enjoy an occasional home cooked meal. Our Youth groups are always looking for those willing to cook an occasional meal for their Thursday night meetings, and if you are interested in providing such a meal, please contact Ellen Durant.

We have several men and women serving in the armed forces who would love to receive a letter or a care package or who would be encouraged to know that you were regularly praying for them. It is always nice to be remembered on your birthday, and some of you who have writing gifts might enjoy penning greetings to those celebrating birthdays or other special occasions.

Next week, we will once again be delivering food for Thanksgiving to those in the Middletown area, who are going through some challenging times.  Volunteering to be a part of the delivery system is a great way to serve and spread Christ’s love. To volunteer please speak to Pastor Nick.

You may not feel competent to do hospital calling, but let me assure you that if you are willing to undertake such a ministry, we will train you. One of my best friends is the hospital chaplain at Riverview, and he repeatedly reminds me of the need for people to do hospital visitation.

The Fellowship Hour doesn’t just happen on its own. There are people who assist in setting up chairs and breaking down tables, and who help set out the food and assist with the cleanup.

We can always use teachers and teachers’ aides, nursery helpers, and check-in personnel.

There is always a need for greeters, and welcome table volunteers, and if this is an interest you possess, all you must do is speak with one of our pastors.

We are always looking for people to stuff bulletins or do filing, or be available to assist your staff with secretarial skills. If you are a gardener there are flowers to plant, and if you are a painter there are walls to paint. There are repairs to be done if you have carpentry or plumbing or electrical skills, and if you like to knit or crochet, there are always baby blankets to be fashioned, and if you interested in audio visual activities you could serve with our audio visual team.

If you don’t see a place where you can be involved, then just ask God to show you what you might be able to do to share His love with others. Someone once said that “The secret to success is to find a need and fill it.” You just might be the filler!

Why not start praying today about what you could do to serve Jesus. You may not think it is much, but like those loaves and fish the little boy placed in the hands of Jesus, He can multiply their value a thousand-fold.

As pastors we would love to hear any ideas you have for serving God, so start praying and let’s look forward to the exciting ministries that God desires to  birth among his people.

Yours in faith and friendship,

Pastor Tom