Daily Bread February 04

Sacred Memory Series: Compassionate Ministry
Becky Savage of Lee’s Summit, MO, USA


He (Jesus) came and took her by the hand and lifted her up. Then the fever left her, and she began to serve them…. And he cured many who were sick with various diseases, and cast out many demons…. In the morning, while it was still very dark, he got up and went out to a deserted place, and there he prayed…. And he went throughout Galilee, proclaiming the message in their synagogues and casting out demons. -Mark 1:31, 34, 35, 39

Ministry was his focus, often sacrificing everything else. From the age of nine I watched my dad, Lloyd Hurshman, serve in his role as a World Church minister. He was at every church event in his field. When people called with a need, he went, leaving in the middle of the night if necessary. After all, he had made a life commitment to serve the church and Jesus Christ.

He taught members to invite people to Christ. He taught leaders to open new congregations in towns and small villages. He opened the church in new countries in Central America. At the heart of Dad’s ministry was compassion for each individual. Sermons and classes incorporated stories that helped scriptures come alive for children and adults. Home visits included teaching about baptism and laying on of hands for the sick. Leadership involved seeing potential in an individual and helping that person see it for him or herself.

I learned so much about ministry from my dad. The one lesson I learned most, however, was the need for personal rest and renewal. Jesus healed, taught, and preached. He also went to deserted places to pray. Compassionate ministry is fueled by prayer and connection to our source of healing, energy, and giftedness. Thank you, Dad, for all you taught. Thank you, God, for your son who daily teaches us holistic, compassionate ministry.

Prayer Phrase

“Remember the long way that the Lord your God has led you…” (Deuteronomy 8:2).

Spiritual Practice

Sacred Memory

Spend time journaling or reflecting on significant memories that have shaped your life. Allow the following questions to guide you: What memories from your life impact how you encounter and respond to the world around you today? When has sacred memory in you become a path into the future?

Today’s Prayer for Peace

Engage in a daily practice of praying for peace in our world. Click here to read today’s prayer and be part of this practice of peace.

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