Family of Volunteers
Scripture Reading — 1 Peter 4:8-11
Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God's grace. . . .
Jim and Mary live down the street from Roseland Christian Ministries (RCM). Retirees, they pour their heart and soul into our thrift store, sorting clothes, stacking furniture, doing what they can to help our little store thrive. The store earns money that helps to support our programs. Working with them are Arlene, Amalia, Marlene, Sue, Ruth, Ms. Green, Bruce, Jan, Terry, Arlo, Randy, and more. They use their gifts to create a community that does a lot of good in the neighborhood.
Jack is our board president. He serves wonderfully in his role of setting policy, vision, and development. But on a Monday morning you’ll often see Jack deep cleaning the kitchen stoves or mopping floors. Over the years I’ve watched him listen and learn—forming bonds and trust with people in the community.
All of the people I have mentioned here are retired. It inspires me that in retirement they live lives of service and form bonds with each other. It’s not simply that they are serving, but that they are serving alongside one another, each with different gifts.
Who are the people you have formed bonds with while serving? Who are the gifted people with whom you serve?
Heavenly Father, thank you for the deep bonds we form while serving together. Strengthen our unity as we work side by side, reflecting your love and building Christian community together. In Jesus, Amen.
About the author — Joe Huizenga
Joe Huizenga serves as pastor and executive director of Roseland Christian Ministries in Chicago, Illinois. He and his wife, Cate, have four children.
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