Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Galatians 6:9
Recently, Elijah and I walked the halls of the church we grew up in after presenting to the Children’s ministry and noticed so many changes. New faces, colors on the walls, and layouts of the classrooms had us reminiscing about what we loved about the ministries that served us, and the ways we were able to pay it forward and give back to a community of believers that meant so much to us.
We met at the camp the youth group hosted every summer and were deeply impacted by the life groups we were a part of as students. We can still see the faces of the committed leaders who challenged us, encouraged us, and prayed for us. Had it not been for the adults that poured wisdom into our lives, we may not have seen our faith play out as it has throughout the years.
Weary Sunday school teacher, Wednesday-night volunteer—you are invaluable.
Small group leaders, camp counselors, VBS teachers—you are building up leaders to come.
Having worked in education, I can attest to the frustration that comes from a chaotic day where it feels like your carefully crafted words fall on deaf ears. The spring semester is particularly trying, as the business we are wrapped up in unravels so quickly in anticipation for summer. Having interned and volunteered, I remember the exhaustion that accompanies the musings about if all that work makes a difference—if the seeds that were planted will ever see the harvest.
We are a product of the dedication of discipleship that is unique to the local church. Each camp counselor, mission trip chaperone and life group leader had a hand in speaking God’s truth into our lives and we are forever grateful. The picture above shows us on the last day of the overseas trip we took as juniors in high school. It was on this trip that Elijah received his call to devote his life to missions.
You could change the trajectory of someone’s life through the impact you have in a classroom, cabin, or country unfamiliar to your own.
You never know.
Return to Service 