Sep | 23 | Doctorates for Deacons

Key Word:- OBEY

Title:- Doctorates for Deacons

Acts 6:1-3 Now in those days, when the number of the disciples was multiplying, there arose a complaint against the Hebrews by the Hellenists, because their widows were neglected in the daily distribution. Then the twelve summoned the multitude of the disciples and said, “It is not desirable that we should leave the word of God and serve tables. therefore, brethren, seek out from among you seven men of good reputation, full of the Holy Spirit and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business;
 
I used to visit regularly the local seminary for deacons. ‘Jack's Diner’ is one of those ‘All American’ places I love to go. It was late at night and this 24 hour gathering place was ticking over nicely. I sat on a blue vinyl stool at the white Formica bar and stared over into the cramped cooking area. Any second now Al Pacino, as the short order chef, would grab another slip of paper, furiously impaled on an old greasy aluminium prong beneath the brown fat matted heat lamps, where the neat cooked food waited to be whisked away by the wizened and over stressed, over busy, young- old waitress named Frankie.

As far as I know, the seminary is still decorated with shiny aluminium and magic mirrors that reflect flickering pink fluorescent lights and broken, not so new, neon signs. “Eat at Jack’s!” The “J” almost certainly still flickerng intermittently and drawing attention to itself.

The communion furniture at Jack’s Diner is common. Two miraculous royal blend never empty coffee pots eternally and slowly simmering on the side. Indeed, the brew is so powerful that even the decaf would keep a hardened platoon of tired soldiers awake for at least 3 days and nights leaving them fidgety for a fight. The coffee’s aroma buzzes in unison with the neon lighting. Very soon Professor Frankie will swish into the classroom, pad in hand and begin the lesson. It’s a repetitive dance she has, but over the years, it has served herself and others very well indeed. Listen and learn:

“Hey hun how you doin? My names Frankie and I’m your waitress for tunite. What’s yur name?”

Chewing gum and with hands on hips, the education continues.

“Do yoo need a few mower minutes hun? Let me get ya some caffee whilst yu decide what yer wantin”

The food order is given and then gently, openly and intricately examined.

“So, how do yer like yur eggs? Hmhm
Fries or baked potadah? Hmhm
Gravy? Saaad salad” Hmhm
Sassage or baycun? Hmhm
Canadian or American?” Hmhm

The delivery will be hot and quick, arriving with affirmation from professor Frankie,

“Man this sure smells guurd! Think I’ll get me some O that thur myself!”

The consumption is never silent.

“More coffee hun?” or “Is everything O.K hun? You like it?”

Searching eyes seem to be able to see through my off white and bourbon like stained plastic cup and somehow the coffee never gets below half empty and I mean, never! Whatever is left over (there are always ‘left overs’) are eventually removed and the final question is delicately broached,

“Dessert?”

The bill is written and out of respect, is placed face down on the table and with a smile, Frankie now flits away to serve another. She doesn’t wait to count her money or inspect her tip. She expects you to be honest and if she has served you well, to be generous. Satisfied and well served I leave.

“Y’all come on back now.”

Oh I will Frankie, I really will.

Kindness, fullness, warmth, consideration, attendant care and respect, will after years of selfless service, earn any prospective deacon, a Doctorate in Care. God’s seminary at Jacks Diner together with Professor Frankie, are open and available 24 hours a day for your continuing instruction. “Y’all come on down now and learn a little.”


Listen:- “You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and those who are great exercise authority over them. Yet it shall not be so among you; but whoever desires to become great among you, let him be your servant. And whoever desires to be first among you, let him be your slave — just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.” Matthew 20:25-28

Pray:- Lord. Teach me to wash feet and wait on tables, to take care of the orphan and the widow. Lord teach me, pure and undefiled religion that is acceptable in Your sight, in Jesus name I pray, amen.