Colossians 1:1-2 "The Drummer"

Read Colossians 1:1-2.

"Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God...." NIV

Although the word "apostle" traditionally refers to the disciples of Christ and the early church missionaries like Paul, the word actually means messenger or sent one. Therefore, aren't we all called to be apostles of the gospel of Jesus Christ. In Matthew 28:19 Jesus says, "Therefore, go...."

How many times do we read the Word, go to church and sit in our usual spot, go home and go about the rest of our lives without living out the calling upon our lives? We've been sent, but we don't accept the responsibility of being messengers. Too often we pigeon-hole preachers and evangelists as being those who are sent. We have in our mindset that it's their responsibility to get the message out. But we all have been given the great commission, not just the career ministers or those who have the gifting of evangelism.

If we'd look at who Jesus chose to be his disciples and apostles, we'd see an eclectic group who could go into any walk of life and share Jesus. Our everyday passions are opportunities to minister to others and share the message. Maybe we don't give it overtly, but it can be shown in the little and big things of life. And it can best be done in our area of giftedness.

This last week I saw again the video by Marcus Buckingham called, "Tromboneplayerwanted." It's about a boy who plays the trombone, but who very obviously should be playing the drums. He's not in his sweet spot. He needed to be doing what he was designed to do.

The idea of "going" can take many forms. Today, my husband's administrative assistant dropped by with a meal. She was sharing the love of Christ with us with her gifting of hospitality.

We often only think of Paul as a missionary, but he was also a writer. It is believed that Paul never got to Colosse -- only his letter. Whether your area of sharing is through evangelism, writing, helps, hospitality, whatever, figure out what you are. Then get up and go. You've already received the mandate, now you just need to be obedient. Time is short and we still have a lot to do. Be an apostle -- take the message.

Further Thoughts:

1. Are you giving out the message as a trombone player when you should be a drummer? Figure out your strength and share the message in it.
2. Watch this preview to Tromboneplayerwanted.
3. What Old Testament people were not living in their strength? Who were? Who made a difference and how?
4. Ask the Holy Spirit to open your eyes to opportunities (sometimes way out of the box) to share the message.