Why Do We Serve?
Mission trips are common in ministry experiences. But why serve? What’s the point? We go on mission trips because we follow the example of Jesus coming to Earth to do the ultimate good deed, saving us. A mission trip can be an example of us displaying that love to the world. We find our example of what it means to do a mission trip well in Jesus and this is where we start. Below are a couple of reasons to think about why and what happens when we serve our communities:
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We should see our service as an opportunity to plant seeds. Orthodox Christian belief says that apart from faith in Jesus, humanity is doomed. History shows that people are most often converted through a series of conversations and exploration. The one life changing conversation, though not impossible, is rare. Knowing this, we use our good deeds as a way to plant seeds about who Jesus is and pray that God would bear fruit from them.
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Apart from God, whether you are rich or poor, Black or White, from the city or the suburbs; we all need Jesus. There are people right where you are that need to hear the good news of Jesus. Don’t think you have to wait until you come to the city to find those in need because they are everywhere. We live in a world broken by sin. The way sin manifests will look different in each place but it doesn’t make it any less broken. As you prepare to come serve, think about the needs in your area. Start to think about the people who seem to have it are but are lacking a life transforming relationship with Jesus. Ask yourself this question: What does it look like to serve and love them?