Appointed to His Service

I give thanks to Christ Jesus our Lord who has strengthened me, because he considered me faithful, appointing me to the ministry. —1 Timothy 1:12

First Chronicles 1–9 consists mostly of lists and genealogies. It’s one of those passage we’re tempted to gloss over. But recently I stopped to ponder one paragraph that details the responsibilities of the Levites. Some were assigned to count the temple utensils every time they were used. Others “mixed the spices” (9:30). And then there was Mattithiah, who was “entrusted with baking the bread” (v. 31).

Not exactly job descriptions most of us dream of! But these faithful servants glorified God through embracing and fulfilling their assignment, day in and day out, one repetitive duty after another.

As meaningless as some tasks may seem, we need to be reminded that it’s a privilege to be entrusted by the living God with responsibility in His kingdom. Amid seemingly endless duties, most of which lack glamour and will never win earthly accolades, the “burden” of our workload is lightened when we approach it as a high and holy calling, a gift to be received with gratitude.