And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ.
(Colossians 3:23-24 KJV)
A few weeks ago, I shared a post, Serving in Jesus’ Name: Mission Trip. This week, I will be returning to the topic of serving in Jesus’ name—considering how we can benefit (or be blessed) in serving others in the name of Jesus.
Many opportunities surround us that will allow us to serve others. The jobs may not be all that glamorous, clean, or easy. However, we will discover that we receive far more out of it than we could ever imagine. In many ways we receive far more than we give as we serve others in Jesus’ name. Our lives will be blessed in ways we could never dream possible.
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| Arizona: God's Beautiful Creation, photo credit: P. Whitlach |
Volunteer work, much like tutoring, gives seemingly more to the person doing than to the recipients. We are blessed by God to be a blessing. As we bless others; we find that we are blessed in return.
While not all of us can or should build a house or a ramp to a house (some of us should stay as far away as possible!); we can all do something. Each one of us has been given talents and gifts that we should use to help and bless others. The gifts are unique to each person and should be encouraged and celebrated.
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| Photo Credit: P. Whitlach |
For some of us, our talents may be the gift of listening well to others—such as a person who is hurting emotionally. Some times listening is the most helpful thing that we can do. Other talents may include: providing transportation to a doctor’s appointment, providing a meal, mentoring a child or a youth, working in a domestic violence shelter, or simply being a good friend.
All of this and more is vitally important in a world full of darkness, hurt, trauma, anger, and deception. As Christians we have a positive story to share; sometimes the best way to do it is to simply care and use the fewest words possible.
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| Photo Credit: P. Whitlach |
Take some time to pray and reflect—discovering what God wants you to do in your work for Him. Age does not matter to God; last time I checked a retirement plan was not in the works.
Please join with me in prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father, Thank You for the gift of meaningful work, particularly work that allows us to help others in a positive and meaningful way. Help us, Lord to see Jesus in those we are serving, as well as in those who are around us each day. Bless the work that we do to help others who need to experience Your love and care with skin on. Thank You for the blessings we receive as we love and care for those You place in our lives. In Jesus’ Name we pray. Amen.
From My Heart to Yours,
Kim
Hi Kim! Years ago, my husband and I went on a construction mission trip to an Indian Reservation in Arizona. ( Love the Ariz. pics here!) We were told that construction background wasn't necessary, and really, I guess that was true.
ReplyDeleteBut still, I wished I have more skills in roofing, electrical etc. I don't think I'd ever do another construction one. It's not my forte. I would need to find a medical or teaching one I think. Your point about finding the right fit for my skill set is really a good one. Too bad I didn't know that then!
Happy Weekend :)
Ceil
Hi Ceil,Thank you for sharing about your mission trip to Arizona. I'm sure it was a rewarding experience, even if you felt a bit out of your comfort zone/skill set. God can use us, even at times that we feel like we lack the necessary skills in a given situation.
DeleteHave a blessed weekend,
Kim
Yes, Kim, there are so many ways we can (and should!) demonstrate the love of Jesus to others. Everyone has gifts and talents. May we give of ourselves freely.
ReplyDeleteLove and blessings!
Martha, Thank you for stopping by and commenting. The possibilities really are endless, if we have eyes to see and the ability to understand. Giving of ourselves really is priceless.
DeleteLove and blessings!
wonderful post, bless you.
ReplyDeleteThank you, Shortybear for stopping by and commenting. Thank you for your encouragement.
DeleteBlessings to you!
Yes, we are blessed to be a blessing...and sometimes we forget that we are to be light in a world of darkness...and salt to those who have lost the savor of their lives. May the Lord show us ways to be Christ to others around us wherever we may be. Even through the words that we write and share...this is a ministry to the Lord. Thank you for this wonderful reminder.
ReplyDeletePam, Thank you for your comments. It is so easy to lose sight of the needs of others, as we rush around living life. The world really does need to see Jesus--may we be His hands and feet--addressing the issues He calls us to. Thank you for the reminder that the words I share here are a ministry to the Lord! You're welcome for the reminder!
DeleteBlessings!