A devotion written by Gary Ward

Share each other’s burdens, and in this way obey the law of Christ. – Galatians 6:2

Like many of you, I’ve been watching The Chosen, a wonderful telling of Jesus’ choosing, teaching, and sending of the twelve to begin spreading what we know as the Gospel message. It’s interesting to note that each disciple had issues which challenged their transitions from pre-Jesus lives to effective disciples and apostles. They were often confused and lacked self-confidence. Still, each
Disciple answered the call. Jesus provided what each one needed to be effective.

I believe each of us has been called to follow Jesus and called to serve Him and others through Stephen Ministry. We’ve all received the same training, all received the same challenge: To walk with and share the burdens of those who are struggling with the issues of life. As Stephen Leaders and Stephen Ministers, our training equips us to enter the holy process of healing that only comes from and through Jesus. Even when we lack confidence for our part of that process, we can always count on Jesus to be present, to guide us and bless us. Jesus provides what each of us needs to be effective.

July 2026 is a time of Network transition, from John and Linda to Linda and Steve. Let us move forward with confidence in the knowledge we are never alone in our serving and caring. Christ goes before us to prepare the way. Christ goes with us to provide the healing. Thanks be to God.

Let us pray:
Loving Father, we lift to you the work of Stephen Ministry in Greater Cincinnati. We thank you for John’s leadership, and pray your continued blessing upon Linda, Steve, and each of us as we move forward in the work set before us. Allow us to effectively care for each other and each Care Receiver in our collective ministry. We lift this prayer in Jesus’ name. Amen.