This is a very special day for the Friendship family. On today, we celebrate Deacons and Trustees Affirmation Day. Although in reference to this day, “celebrate” is a misnomer. A better rendering of the essence of this day is assertion and individual validation. On today, our deacons are standing up and stating publically: “I am a deacon as defined by the Bible, God’s holy word.” Deacons are appointed church officers, ordained by the apostles (Acts 6:1-6), they are named with the Bishops/Elders (Philippians 1:1), and their qualifications are found in 1 Timothy 3:8-13. What our Deacons are affirming today is, THEY ARE DEACONS. They are servants of the Lord Jesus Christ. Conversely, the membership is stating publically: “We bless God and honor your leadership.” The Word of God says: For those who perform well as deacons acquire a good standing for themselves and also gain much confidence and freedom and boldness in the faith which is [founded on and centers] in Christ Jesus (1 Timothy 3:13 Amplified Bible).
The Trustees are certainly included in Colossians 3:23: “Whatever may be your task, work at it heartily (from the soul), as [something done] for the Lord and not for men.” The Trustees are affirming their stewardship, a trust granted for profitable use, of spiritual things based on gifts bestowed upon His people. The Trustees are stating publically that they too are servants of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Again the membership is stating: “We bless God and honor your leadership.”
Deacons and Trustees Affirmation Day, a day when Friendship corporately affirms our being true yoke fellows, laboring in His vineyard. And the best is yet to come!
Deacons and Trustees, be blessed as you work for Him.
Pastor J. Amos Jones
