Imagine a worship service without our beloved Host of Mahanaim and Council of Abiezer. Who will make us feel the warmth of our fellowship the moment we set foot inside the chapel? Who will assist us in fulfilling our Christian duties for the service? Who will deliver God’s message and feed our souls? It is unthinkable for the Most Holy Church of God in Christ Jesus to be without the servants of God.
Our spiritual journey is blessed with our ministers, deacons, deaconesses, secretaries, and treasurers. They faithfully serve and contribute their time and talents. To honor their sacrifices in fulfilling their divine calling, we hold a special annual event for them in the Most Holy Church. That is our Thanksgiving for the Election of the Host of Mahanaim and Council of Abiezer, which this year will be held on the 23rd of Abiezer (July).
Our attendance at this special event is important. While we can express our gratitude for our ministers and Abiezers through words, demonstrating our appreciation through meaningful actions—like attending the event—holds more weight. Showing gratitude through tangible acts of kindness, support, and service undeniably indicates just how much we honor our beloved brothers and sisters.
Let us explore examples that will encourage us to put our appreciation into action.
Extend a Helping Hand
Galatians 5:13 (NIV) reminds us, “Serve one another humbly in love.”
One of the most effective ways to honor our God’s chosen servants is by offering a helping hand in their various responsibilities. Free up an afternoon to join deacons and deaconesses in visiting fellow members or ministers in preaching the Gospel through Bible studies. Our involvement demonstrates our commitment to supporting their vital work in the Most Holy Church.
Pray for Their Well-Being
James 5:16 (NIV) encourages us to “pray for each other so that you may be healed.”
A prayer is a powerful tool for uplifting and supporting our dear Host of Mahanaim and Council of Abiezer. Regularly intercede on their behalf, asking God to grant them wisdom, strength, and guidance in their roles. After all, their success in fulfilling their ministries is our collective success as one Church.
Express Appreciation Personally
1 Thessalonians 5:11 (NIV) states, “Encourage one another and build each other up.”
Take the time to personally express gratitude to your ministers, deacons, deaconesses, secretaries, and treasurers. Offer encouragement, write a heartfelt note, or share specific instances where their service has positively impacted your spiritual journey. Having these things come from a member they regularly spend time with will make the acts more so special.
Attend and Participate
Hebrews 10:25 (NIV) encourages us to “not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another.”
This reminder is not only for the upcoming Thanksgiving. Being actively present and engaged in all Church activities not only supports the ministry of the Host of Mahanim and Council of Abiezer. It also strengthens the entire brethren. Attend services, Bible studies, and events regularly. Actively participate and encourage others to do the same.
Share Their Burdens
Galatians 6:2 reminds us to “carry each other’s burdens, and in this way, you will fulfill the law of Christ.”
Our beloved Mahanaim and Abiezer often carry the weight of their responsibilities, which can be emotionally and spiritually challenging. Offer a listening ear, a compassionate heart, and provide support when needed. Knowing you are among the members they can count on will lighten the load they carry in fulfilling their ministry.
Foster a Culture of Unity
Ephesians 4:3 (NIV) emphasizes the importance of “making every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.”
Strive to promote unity, respect, and harmony within the brethren. Avoid gossip, conflict, and divisive behavior. Instead, build bridges, seek reconciliation, and work towards a spirit of love and understanding. Our Mahanaim and Abiezer will be delighted to see the brethren they serve united and happy in serving God.
Honoring our ministers, deacons, deaconesses, secretaries, and treasurers is a matter of expressing gratitude and an opportunity to show our appreciation through intentional actions. By extending a helping hand, praying for their well-being, expressing personal appreciation, attending and participating, sharing burdens, and fostering unity, we actively demonstrate our love and support for these dedicated brothers and sisters.
Through our actions, we acknowledge their sacrifices and the significance of their roles in guiding us on our spiritual journey. Remember that honoring our Host of Mahanaim and Council of Abiezer is not a one-time event but a continuous commitment to supporting them in their service to God and the Church.
Together, as a united body of believers, we can create an atmosphere of appreciation, love, and encouragement, reflecting the teachings of Christ and bringing glory to His name. May our actions speak louder than words as we honor and uplift those who faithfully serve in the Most Holy Church of God in Christ Jesus.
