Open Doors

The work of a pastor can be streaky. Some weeks a pastor does not have time to breathe. Problems, needs, administrative duties, study and preparation, counseling all tug at the pastor. It feels much like someone grabbing your collar and pulling you down. Other weeks, there is barely anything to do. These weeks are good for prayer, study, and soul-winning of course. Nearly two years ago, I went through a time period in which there were not a lot of opportunities to serve. I took it to the Lord in prayer. I asked the Lord to open up some doors of ministry. He answered those prayers in a mighty way. About that time, the economy in Kansas (and everywhere else) tanked. The state hospital in Oz could not afford to pay the chaplain any longer. God opened the doors for me and some other pastors to hold monthly chapel services. What a tremendous opportunity this has been. God has drawn people to Himself in every chapel service I have had the privilege to preach. I ought to point out that for 23 years I had called the hospital and offered to hold services. The answer was always the same: "We have a chaplain." I have no doubt that God miraculously opened the door of service and ministry at the state hospital. Not long after that, I was offered an invitation to teach a class to a select group of patients at the hospital. The class is entitled "Spirituality and Music Therapy". I happen to know a little something about those things, holding a masters degree in Bible and a bachelors degree in music. God opened another door! Not long after that, I realized that a friend of mine from my home church (Open Door Baptist, KC) worked at the City Union Mission in Kansas City.
I contacted him about the possibility of our church holding chapel services there. God opened another door and Faith Baptist of Osawatomie has had several chapel services at the mission with men saved at every service! I love preaching at my church in Oz, but I also love preaching to the people at the hospital and mission. They have made some mistakes (who hasn't?) and they are facing some hardships in life, but I believe these are the very people Jesus would go to if He were here in His earthly body. I praise the Lord today for these wonderful open doors of ministry and service. It is a privilege to serve the Lord!