Rewind to the first year since I’ve started going to Word International Ministries Ontario, I can recall when I was just an attendee coming to Sunday services.I would come to these services with the thought that it made my girlfriend happy and that was simply it. I’m not going to tell you that I yearned God’s Word because I would be lying. Well, initially that’s how it was.

As time went by, I became more and more interested in getting to know Jesus. Day by day, I fed myself with the Word, dedicated myself to my devotions, listened closely, and took notes during Sunday preachings. But as much as I did these things, I didn’t feel much satisfaction in knowing I was truly committing my life to Jesus until I realized in order to grow, I needed to serve others.

When we study Ephesians 4:11-16, we learn about Paul’s instructions in using what God has equipped each of us with in order to build the body of Christ. These are gifts that He has generously blessed us with so that we may build a healthy Christ-centred community and personally grow in our faith.

Often times we may get carried away going to church because:

• You would like to fill yourself with the Word and simply go on with your week
• You’re looking to be entertained
• You’re in need or looking for some sort of healing

But there will be a time that you realize that there’s more to it than just knowing Christ. You’re part of the body of Christ in which God wants you to know that you and your gifts play a big part in.

“How can others discover these gifts if you’re not willing to share them?” This was the question that I needed to ask myself in order to motivate myself to get involved in church. I’m thankful  to have met a family in WIMO who have helped me grow and allowed me to do things that I was passionate about. For example, contributing to some of the church-wide marketing campaigns and media projects. Another example would be managing the WIMO blog and e-newsletter with my hope that people learn about Christ in the stories, testimonies and teachings our members share.

Furthermore, I pray that as a church, we continue to grow together in Christ. As we grow together we may understand that, as said by Pastor Roderick last Sunday, “the church’s greatest calling is to let people see Christ and experience Christ through you.”

— Mar Jay Rigor