The Path I walk:Service

I have been experiencing a spiritual renaissance of sorts. VPM, as a community of believers, has been involved in an all-church study called Outflow. We've been taking a look at how our personal relationship with God impacts the quality of our own lives, the lives of our family and friends, the community, and the world. In particular, we have been looking at the acts of service that we can do that convey the love of God to others. That was the key reason for hosting the Community Party last weekend. In mid-November, we're having a Sunday "service" outside the church-not actually meeting for church-but going out into the community that day instead of having church and doing acts of service for people in our local area. I have to say, with all the uncertainty going on in the world presently, it is the natural tendency to become more self-focused because of fear and worry. This study has really challenged me to put that lack of faith behind me and become more outward-focused in my lifestyle. I think all of us in Christian circles shrink back when the E word gets spoken: Evangelism. That conjures up images of Bible thumpers handing out tracts or standing on a street corner somewhere spouting off the hell fire and brimstone REPENT message. Really, what this Outflow series has drawn our attention to is the everyday opportunities we have to do small random acts of kindness to anyone and everyone that we come across, starting with our friends and family-which is sometimes harder because of our history with them! Pastor Steve reminded us that, when it comes to our interactions with family and friends, we cannot undo the past, control the future, or make anyone a follower of Jesus. Some of the things we discussed during church that all of us can do for others: Pray for people~Listen to people~Serve others in any way that we can when the circumstance presents itself~Share the message of God's love in a non-offensive way with gentleness and respect whenever we are given the chance. Actions speak louder than words!
Charity does begin at home...and flows outward!