Tempted as I am sometimes to deceive myself into thinking I’ve scaled the mountains of Christian maturity, it’s good to be reminded I’m but a neophyte in the faith. I’m a dwarf in the presence of towering spiritual Redwoods, and I have much to learn.

One of my joys while studying in seminary has been serving in a couple nursing homes in our city. For a young man with limited ministry experience, my time working in a nursing home has helped me grow as a pastor and put my shepherding skills to use. Here are four simple lessons I’ve learned along the way.

When the apostle Paul reminded the Ephesian elders that they “must help the weak,” he also instructed them to remember Jesus’ words, “It is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35). There is more joy in serving than in being served.

Every season of life has particular challenges. Many residents in nursing homes experience pronounced feelings of loneliness, frustration, uselessness, and pain. I’m able to be a friend and engage them in conversation; I’m able to rehearse the gospel to them while at the same time encouraging them to serve in little ways, like praying for unbelievers around them.

In turn, then, I witness faith in the midst of great trial, weakness, and loss. The blessing flows two ways: I’m encouraged even as I try to encourage others. Tempted as I am sometimes to deceive myself into thinking I’ve scaled the mountains of Christian maturity, it’s good to be reminded I’m but a neophyte in the faith. I’m a dwarf in the presence of towering spiritual Redwoods, and I have much to learn.

It’s a precious blessing to be the vehicle by which the Lord encourages his people in their faith.

2. The Unique Context to Hone Preaching Gifts

“It doesn’t matter what you do, your first 200 sermons will be terrible.” I don’t recall where I first read this quote from Tim Keller, but I do remember feeling the odd combination of discouragement and encouragement at the same time. If I want to improve as a preacher, I must keep on preaching and take up every opportunity to do so.

Residents in nursing homes aren’t guinea pigs for aspiring preachers; they are, like anyone else, sheep who need to be shepherded. And many residents are especially patient and kind with your homiletical shortcomings—they’re just glad you’re there and that you care. (I will say that some residents can be blunt if you’re losing them, which is a gift in its own way.) Moreover, nursing home services are usually small and modest, which gives some relief to those intimidated by larger settings. And for those training for ministry, preaching in a nursing home ministry provides more frequent opportunities to exercise this gift. Even with a rotation of three or four men, it’s been wonderful to work my way through 1 John, Philippians, 1 Peter, a smattering of the psalms, and now the Gospel of John.

The first time I preached at the nursing home, the man who coordinated the ministry accompanied me. He was a few years ahead of me in seminary and, although far too kind and generous in his critiques, he did offer lots of invaluable feedback. Two years later, I’ve grown in my ability to handle a biblical text, communicate it faithfully, and apply it in tender, Christlike love. As with sanctification, I’m not where I want to be, but I’m glad I’m not where I used to be.

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