The early church was governed from Jerusalem in the heart of Judea, and there was a group of believers there called the Hebraic Jews. On the other hand, there were the Hellenistic Jews who lived in the region of Galilee. Early in church history, the Hellenistic Jews registered a complaint against the Hebraic Jews, claiming that their widows were not receiving enough food in the daily distribution. Though the matter seemed trite to the church fathers, they decided to appoint a board to oversee the handing out of rations to ensure that everything was fair. Interestingly, Stephen was the first one they chose. Though it probably didn’t seem significant in the eyes of many, this Godly man’s willingness to do what was minor resulted in a major outpouring of the Holy Spirit upon his life. 

Friend, a lesson to learn from Stephen is that if God asks you to do something small, it’s important to say yes! The one who was willing to do the work that nobody wanted to do because he loved people is the one the Lord then anointed to preach with power. Jesus is more concerned with the condition of your heart than He is with your skill. When you’re available to do something as insignificant as waiting on the tables of orphans and widows, He can trust you with greater work in His Kingdom. Become a minister of Christ’s compassion by loving His people and watch as He empowers you to do things far beyond what you could have imagined!