I had the opportunity this weekend to serve after a wedding by helping pick up chairs to clear the sanctuary. I don't share this story to boast about my sacrifice (because it wasn't really a sacrifice), instead I want to share with you what a kid said to me while serving.
As I was wheeling the chairs over to the side, the young man, approximately 11 years of age, came running up to me asking if he could help me. I admittedly was a bit skeptical because a lot of 11 year olds want to mess around more than help. I was soon pleasantly surprised as he ran ahead of me to a stack of chairs and leaned them forward so I could get the chair dolly underneath it. He would then follow me back and forth, eager to help in any little way he can. When we were almost finished, he looked up at me, and with a sincere heart he said, "I'm going to be doing this one day."
I was completely speecheless at the absoute selflessness of his desire to serve in such a small way. As I thought about that interaction more and more, I was challenged and convicted. Challenged because of this kids sincere desire to serve God. Convicted because what if he was with me throughout the week? Would he have the same desire to do the things I do? Would I want him to do the things that I do throughout the week?
What a simple statement, but what a profound impact. "I'm going to be doing this one day." What kind of example are you setting for the younger kids you interact with?
1 comment:
I was talking to a friend the other day about this same sort of thing. Most of the kids in our church have such great examples set in front of them. Sometimes I'm not sure they fully understand the attitude behing'serving', but I think they are getting a 'behind the scenes' look at how the body of christ functions.
Truth is... if you were out back sneakin a smoke, you'd have some wanting to follow your example. I think these kids will always be growing in their appreciation for those that lead them in the right direction.... even if they're just 'mimicking' for now. They'll understand in the future.
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