And in this context of service, whether it is in the church or in the world Paul makes it clear that foundations are important. And the foundation of our work for Jesus is Jesus Christ. If God has called you to be a parent today as your primary calling, then you are to serve in this capacity, with Jesus as the foundation of your parenting. If you are called to look after the poor and those most marginalised in our parish, then you are to serve, remembering that Jesus is your foundation. If you are called to teach in schools, then you serve, knowing that Jesus is your solid foundation. If you’re called to business, then as you buy and sell and lead people then do so reminding yourself that Jesus is your bedrock, your firm foundation and if your called to minister in the church in whatever capacity, then the foundation of your service is Jesus Christ.
If you get the foundation of your service right, then the ways of the world – competition, arrogance and self promotion won’t stand a chance. And it is this kind of material that will stand the test, it will stand the refiners fire of God. Saints, let’s consider the service we do for God – if we put it in the fire of God right now, would it last? Perhaps as we read this chapter and over the next 24 hours we might ask God to reveal any impurities, any dodgy materials, any foundation that isn’t Jesus Christ. And look saints, if there is, there is grace for you and for I. It’s an opportunity to get rid of these impurities and to continue our service in the right posture.
