Send Me

Here am I; send me

Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?” And I said, “Here am I; send me!”  Isaiah 6:8

“Whoa! Send me?!?! What could I possibly do? I didn’t go to seminary. I’m not ordained. How about what’s his face? Now there’s someone who could really do some of that ministry stuff!”

Sorry, there’s no getting off quite so easy. The Lord created each of us as unique individuals with something to contribute to his work in the world. Every, single one of us. Perhaps we feel a bit inadequate compared to beautiful churches, and talented clergy people, and the size of the task. But remember, God knows you. He created you. And God does not make mistakes.

What does the Catechism, An Outline of the Faith, have to say on the subject. On page 855 of the Book of Common Prayer we find:

What is the ministry of the laity?

The ministry of laypersons is to represent Christ and his Church; to bear witness to him wherever they may be: and, according to the gifts given them, to carry on Christ’s work of reconciliation in the world; and to take their place in the life, worship, and governance of the church.

According to the gifts given to them.”There are two important understandings within that simple statement. God gives gifts to each of us to carry out his work, and they are different for each person. Secondly, what the Lord expects of us is within the abilities that he has provided us.” With that understanding, with confidence, we know that there is work that the Lord has in mind for us, and we can do it because he has equipped us for it.

But what? What is it that I can do? Reread the quote from the Catechism and think about how that might look in terms of your life. Where can you represent Christ and his church? Everywhere! How can you represent Christ and his church? Start with simple acts that carry the light of Christ into the world. In your club, community, or neighborhood, host a group that does Morning, Noonday, or Evening Prayer, or Compline together once a week.  Serve as an acolyte. Serve as an usher. Tell everyone you meet about the wonderful Sunday worship services at your church. There are many simple things that you can do.

Perhaps this excerpt from Daniel L. Schutte’s hymn,  “Here I am, Lord”, will provide some inspiration.

I, the Lord of sea and sky, I have heard My people cry. All who dwell in dark and sin, My hand will save. I who made the stars of night, I will make their darkness bright. Who will bear My light to them? Whom shall I send?

Chorus: Here I am Lord, Is it I Lord? I have heard You calling in the night. I will go, Lord, if You lead me. I will hold Your people in my heart.