One of the greatest blessings God gives us is the opportunity to serve others. When we serve in the church, whether it’s working with kids in Awana, brewing coffee Sunday mornings, signing up for the Trunk or Treat, welcoming new faces, or helping shape the hearts and minds of teens, we look beyond ourselves and start using the time, talents, and treasure God’s given us. While building His kingdom, we get to experience a joy that nothing else can match.
Jesus reminds us that the greatest commandment is to love God and love others (Matthew 22:37–39). Eric touched on this in his sermon. Serving is one of the most tangible ways we live this out. Every act of service, big or small, is a way of saying, “I see you, I care about you, and I want to point you to the love of Christ.” It’s not about recognition or applause, but about reflecting the heart of Jesus, who came not to be served, but to serve (Mark 10:45).
When we serve side by side, something amazing happens! We build friendships and create a sense of family in the church! The laughter shared while working on a project, the encouragement given during a busy Sunday, and the bold prayers for those we serve all weave us together in love and Christ-focused unity.
There’s a special kind of joy that comes when we use our God-given gifts to bless others. It’s the joy of seeing a child’s smile, of watching someone encounter God’s presence, of knowing that what you did, no matter if it seemed small, was used by the Lord to impact eternity. (Romans 8:28) Serving shifts our focus away from ourselves and fills our hearts with gratitude for what the Lord’s done and purpose in how to “walk the walk in which we’ve been called”. (Eph. 4:1b) I know we all have busy lives and are tired more often than we’d like to admit. Can I just tell you how the Lord’s faithful sustaining hand has lifted me up and carried me through countless Awana nights that my body said, “I can’t do this” yet the Lord fulfilled His promise to “…renew their strength; They shall mount up with wings like eagles.”? (Isaiah 41:31)
Maybe you’ve been thinking about serving but haven’t taken that step yet. Let me encourage you: God has given you unique gifts and passions for a reason. When you serve, not only will others be blessed, but you will also discover a joy that can’t be found anywhere else. Serving isn’t just about filling a volunteer spot. It’s about sharing in the mission of Jesus, loving people well, and finding the deep joy that comes when we give our lives away for the sake of the Gospel.
Serving alongside you,
Holly
P. s. Want to sign up to serve right now?! Click here to email Melissa for helping with children. Click here to email Pastor Josh for serving with the youth.
If adult ministry is your area of service, click here to email Pastor Brent.