I was reminded of the centrality of God’s Word
Ryan Spear – graduate Jun 2024
I wondered how God would knit together my past with what was to come as we relocated to Vancouver in 2021 to start my studies at Regent.
An image of a sailboat gave us a metaphor for this season of life – putting out to sea, propelled by the Holy Spirit, coming into harbour for a season. We weren’t sure if we would be putting out to sea once again or coming on shore.
I was doing a mid-career “shift” and unsure exactly what might be next but knowing we were being invited into a season of discernment and being equipped for whatever was next. Turns out, we are coming ashore here in Vancouver.
As I wrap up my studies this summer to finish off my MDiv at Regent, I will be stepping into the role of Director of Youth and Young Adult Ministries at St. John’s Vancouver Anglican Church. I will also be ordained in June.
Artizo was instrumental in this discernment and equipping process. First, I was reminded of the centrality of God’s Word. Ministry will only be fruitful and sustainable if it is drawn from the faithful opening of God’s word. The “treasure is in the text” as David Short put it to us in a training session. Secondly, the broad exposure I gained in my hands-on ministry opportunities – from co-leading a men’s Bible study to writing Bible study guides to working with youth – sharpened my interests and gave me vital initial experience in real ministry.
In 1 Timothy 4:16, Paul gives this exhortation to Timothy, a young-ish minister: “Keep a close watch on yourself and on the teaching. Persist in this, for by so doing you will save both yourself and your hearers.” As I read this recently, I reflected on the nature of this work of watching myself and the teaching. How it is just as important for my own walk with Jesus as it is for those I pray to minister to. As we step forward on this journey, I have seen God’s gentle and generous hand guiding me and shaping my heart to align with his desires for me and his desires for others through me.