The Church has always been on guard, fearful that some wolves disguised in sheep clothing may get into the fold. Much damage can be done if this were to happen. According to Matthew’s Sermon on the Mount, our Lord Jesus cautions all of His people to beware and not be fooled. He is reported to have said, “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves” v. 15.

I have been a shepherd of God’s people for a few decades plus, but I am not sure that I am worthy of the High Call I have received. By saying this I’m not thinking I have become a ravenous wolf, but more, have I become the saint I wish to be? As I was mulling over in my mind just what am I trying to say, I happen to look up to The Certificate of Ordination hanging above my desk.

Let my share with you what it says: “Herewith The Church declares To Whom It May Concern, Raymond M. Larson after having sustained an examination on the literary and theological studies required as a Candidate of the Christian Ministry, has been accepted as worthy and able to assume the duties of holy Ministry. He has, therefore, by prayer and Laying on of Hands, been solemnly ordained as a Minister of the Church of Jesus Christ and is therefore duly authorized to preach the Gospel, administer the Sacraments and Rites, and to enjoy in full standing all the prerogatives of the Christian Ministry.”

This is a high calling. I hope that I am all that the Calling of Ministry lays on me and upon all of us who are part of The Christian Church. What is being said here is that every one of us who accepts the call into Christ’s Church needs to live up to this high calling. Jesus says that we will be known by the fruit of our living. It is not so much what we say but more what we do. Our Lord says, “A good tree cannot bear bad fruit!”

Prayer

Heavenly Father, help us to be faithful in all that we say in order that what we do brings glory to Your Son our Lord. We pray in His Name. Amen.