Compiled by: Georgeanne Falstrom, Intern
PARISH LAY MINISTRY ACADEMY
TABLE OF CONTENTS

THURSDAY, MARCH 30
(Daily Readings: Ps 69, 73; Exo 1:6-22; I Cor 12:12-26; Mark 8:27-9:1)


Mission: “Dirty Dozen Diversities” “Raw Iron”
By: Sharon Baker

Scripture: “The body is a unit, though it is made up of many parts; and though all its parts are many, they form one body. So it is with Christ. For we were all baptized by one Spirit into one body-whether Jews or Greeks, slave or free-and we were all given the one Spirit…”I Cor.2:12-13.


The secret conference ended between the three super powers. Years of crucial negotiations strategically emerged with one mission. The timing was imperative. The conditions were gravely unwavering. Only one man possessed the credentials required by international authorities, security clearances and profiling experts to complete this mission.

Mission: Choose twelve men with backgrounds of specially selected, diverse characteristics willing to function as one unit. Current professions must be abandoned. Identities will change forever. Intense, hand-to-hand training required until the team demonstrates required abilities to create unity, strength and influence within all levels of religion and commerce.

As the three super powers walked away from negotiations, each one secretly believed the success of the mission could only be accomplished if “God” Himself walked into the room and volunteered. He did!

The mission baton was accepted. The exclusive team was personally selected based on significant diversities and trained into one unit. One man was an anti-government fanatic. While another man was financially subsidized by the government. Some team members possessed strong personalities with impulsive, arrogant opinions. Others were more silent, cautious and hesitant. Competitive family relations interfered…once. Followed by a stronger training lesson reminding the men their former identities, possession and professions were to be forgotten. Now, they were to become a new, united team designed for special purposes.

Several months passed as this team endured unbearable tests. They were undisciplined, dull and rough like raw iron. The push and pull of their differences sparked like iron sharpening iron until they slowly glistened like polished steel. Steel wrapped in velvet. Diversity embraced unity.

A unit of men sharpened through their diverse differences into a well-balanced, insightful, powerful missionary team ready for the kingdom of God. They were prepared to complete their mission: create unity, strength and influence within levels of religion and commerce. The three super powers…the Father, Son and Holy Spirit received regular training reports. They were pleased with the results the Trainer accomplished through these chosen twelve.

Prayer: In the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, create in me a willing heart. Give me grace under pressure as I am sharpened along with fellow believers towards unity of faith. Take our unity and strength to influence all faith traditions and levels of commerce.