The Baby & The Bathwater – Build a Strong Church - Tuesday
Today’s Verse
Galatians 5:13
For you have been called to live in freedom, my brothers and sisters. But don’t use your freedom to satisfy your sinful nature. Instead, use your freedom to serve one another in love. (NLT)
As promised yesterday, this week I want to remind you that no matter who you are—your story, your age, your job, or your past—you have a part to play in strengthening Jesus’ Church. If you’re anything like I was about 10 years ago, you might read that and think, "Yeah, that sounds good, but what could I possibly offer?" I get it because I’ve been there. I used to think I had little to contribute.
But fast forward through 10 years of volunteering, and I’m amazed at how much serving at Southland has changed my life. Not only that, but I’m honestly still in awe that Jesus chooses to use me—me, of all people—to make a difference in His Church. It’s not because I’m perfect or have it all together; it’s just because I’ve said "yes" to serving, and somehow God uses that, even when I feel unqualified (which is still often!).
One of the most impactful ways I’ve experienced this is through serving with the next generation. It started with Children’s Ministry, and now, unbelievably, those same kids are closing out their Senior year of high school. It certainly hasn’t always gone as expected, but looking back, I wouldn’t trade the time I’ve spent with the boys in my group for anything. Being able to point them to Jesus, listen and relate to their struggles, and have fun on trips and retreats—those moments have been priceless and I’ll remember them forever!
Here’s the thing: it doesn’t matter how old you are or how much experience you have. Every single person in the church has something to offer. Whether it's a skill, your time, or even just the ability to show up, God can use it. And honestly, sometimes it’s easy to think of ourselves as too small to matter—but that’s a lie. The more I’ve stepped out to serve and show up, the more I’ve seen God show up.
REFLECTION
Are you feeling inadequate or like you don’t have time to serve? Tomorrow I’ll be walking through how just 30 minutes a day can make a significant difference! For now keep praying that the Lord opens your heart to serving others, or doing so in new ways.
