Dear First Pres,
“You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the sinful nature; rather, serve one another in love,” (Galatians 5:13). This was the primary verse for our Scripture reading this past Sunday in worship. We are called to use our Christian freedom to serve one another in love.
Toward the end of the sermon I gave a long list of possible ways to serve. Now … considering that it was towards the end of the sermon (I might have lost you by then) and that it was a long list (hard to remember), I decided I would include that same list right here:
"And what does it look like to serve one another in love? It means rallying around our widows and widowers to encourage them in every way. It means committing to serving as children’s ministry leaders and youth ministry leaders. It means seeking out those who are disconnected and inviting them into our everyday lives. It means giving sacrificially to the church in support of the ministries that encourage one another in faith and share the good news of Jesus with our city and world. It means showing up at church events and investing in the people around you. It means learning the names of children in our congregation so that you can be praying for them to know and follow Jesus. It means participating in a “meal train” even if it means learning how to cook in a way that you don’t normally cook. It means learning to listen well to one another. It means sharing your resources with each other. It means welcoming in the newcomer even if your circle of friends is already established. It means coming for both worship services so that you can serve during one and worship during the other. It means visiting those who are no longer able to get themselves here for worship. It means writing notes of encouragement to those who are struggling. And it means allowing others to serve you, because every one of us is in need."
As I said on Sunday, this is not a comprehensive list. The Deacons presented their Love in Action form on Sunday too. You can check it out HERE. You can also find out about ways to serve in our various ministries on our website’s Serve page.
Why all the energy lately about serving? First, it’s biblical (see Galatians 5:13). Second, it’s one of the main ways that the Holy Spirit grows our faith. Third, a healthy church is a serving church. Fourth, the opportunities abound – both in official and unofficial ways
Remember, we follow the One who came to serve us. If you’re unsure or just not feeling like it’s time for you to serve, ask the Lord to guide you. I’m sure He’ll show you the way forward.
May we be a church, more and more, serving one another in love.
Blessings,
Jeremy
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