Have you noticed just how
self-centered and shallow our society is becoming?
Indeed, we live in a culture
that seems to constantly crave entertainment while eschewing service. Sometimes,
Christian families can carelessly fall into this trap, one that promises personal
fulfillment and satisfaction in life, but comes up empty in the end. The
Christian life, at its very core, is all about serving others. Jesus, of
course, is our ultimate model of self-sacrifice and service. Matthew 20:28 says,
“the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and give his life as a
ransom for many.”
One of the key ways that we
can demonstrate His Heart with our hands is through compassionate, meaningful
service of others. This can be done as congregations, individuals, and as
families. Galatians 5:13-14 states, “For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do
not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve
one another. For the whole law is fulfilled in one word: ‘You shall love your
neighbor as yourself’.”
Families can become so inwardly focused that we
forget our purpose and mission to glorify God through our good works. So how
about it? Why not come up with a family service project that everyone can be a
part of not matter their age. Perhaps the project could be to serve together in
a soup kitchen, help out with some good cause, like “Relay for Life” or a
fund-raiser for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Or maybe you could plan
to clean an elderly person’s home, work in their yard, or wash their car.
Another possibility is to provide respite to a young family who needs a date
night and watch their children free-of-charge.
There are tons of ways that our families can mobilize
and work together to serve others in a special way. And believe me . . . when
we serve side-by-side we will naturally draw closer to each other and enjoy
some great conversation and make meaningful memories.
