When we became Christians we accepted Jesus as our Lord and Savior. Jesus shed His blood to pay the sin debt of us all; He died to save us from our sins. He is our Savior. But let’s not forget that Jesus is also our Lord. I like the term, “Jesus follower,” to describe this aspect of our faith because it denotes action. You cannot follow someone without doing something. We must obey His commandments and follow His teachings. We are charged to love one another and to serve. James 4:14-26 explicitly links “deeds” with faith culminating in verse 26, “…faith without deeds is dead.” (NIV)
At the Last Supper John 13:4-5 tells of Jesus washing His disciples’ feet. In that culture, foot washing was a task assigned to the lowest-ranking household servant. In this example, our Lord and Master became the servant! If our Lord can serve others, can’t we? Shouldn’t we?
We know that God gives us everything that we have. At times we hear sermons on tithing our income to God – giving back 10% of what He has given us. Many people do that. God also gives us another valuable resource – our time. We get 168 hours every week, every year of our lives. Have you ever thought about what portion of your time you have dedicated to God in prayer, Bible study and serving Him? Should we not use a portion of the time that God has given us in serving Him?
Participating on HBC committees and assisting in HBC-sponsored events are vital to the life of our church. HBC has many committees that need members and leadership. We have numerous events throughout the year that provide opportunities to serve. I’d like to encourage everyone to search their hearts and pray for guidance as to how you can serve God at Haymarket Baptist Church. Being a Christian is not a spectator sport. Jesus expects us to participate in His work when we elect to follow Him.
Opportunities for service also exist in our community. HBC has supported – Boxes of Basics, Crossroads Connection, The Sweet Julia Grace Foundation, Carried to Full Term, Haymarket Regional Food Pantry, Rainbow Therapeutic Riding Center
All of these organizations seek volunteers to help accomplish their mission. Check them out and see if one is a good fit for you. It’s another way to serve our Lord.
Paul Sellers
Deacon of the Month