Every one of us appreciates experiencing excellence, whether we are working, traveling, or engaging in other activities. We value being treated as we deserve—or even better than our highest expectations.
It is very easy to observe people going above and beyond to provide exceptional service. That experience brings joy and satisfaction to all of us.
But what about our calling to promote excellence in our church or school setting? Doesn’t that mean providing the best spiritual and emotional environment for our members and guests?
When I started my ministry in the Madison East District, I invited our church members to aim for higher standards—to be a five-star church—offering the best we can to facilitate an atmosphere of friendship, worship, and service, as our God is worthy.
While we are not perfect by any means, we are all called to imitate Daniel’s attitude toward service. “Then this Daniel distinguished himself above the governors and satraps, because an excellent spirit was in him,” (Daniel 6:3).
An excellent spirit means a strong connection with the Spirit, who provides the spiritual gifts necessary for the church’s development and growth. It also means a strong desire to use all God-given abilities for His glory and the edification of others. It means service motivated by love—and even sacrifice—until the purpose is fulfilled.
Along the same lines, Ellen White reiterated the call to excellence:
“Christ has made every provision for us to be children of God. Oh, my heart says, Praise His holy name, that of His fullness we can receive grace for grace. Let us strive, by receiving His word, to reach the high standard of perfection. We are safe only when seeking the qualities that make us children of God, possessors of sanctified excellence.”
—Letter 155, September 5, 1902
Let us all follow the example of Jesus and other biblical heroes who dedicated everything they had to foster a spirit of sanctified excellence in ministry.
Titus Naftanaila,
President