At Vineyard Columbus, we value mercy, justice, and the progress of the Gospel in the world. We believe we are called to be engaged in the world around us as “salt and light,” expressing the love of God through good works such as providing for those in need, defending the weak, working for justice, establishing new communities of faith and discipling the nations.
But what does that mean…practically?
A lived principle, of Vineyard Columbus, is to serve others. In commitment to that principle, we orient our hearts to this text in 1 Corinthians 10:23-24. “All things are permitted, but not all things are of benefit. All things are permitted, but not all things build people up. No one is to seek his own advantage, but rather that of his neighbor (NASB).” In the New International Version, verse 24 says, “No one should seek their own good, but the good of others.”
In short, we serve others and we do so for their good, not our own…right?
Yes. But serving can be a funny thing. It allows us to add value to others and at the same time it adds value to us. Sometimes we can get lost in the euphoric feelings that doing good brings to us. There may even be times when we forget why we are saying yes, why we are showing up and our focus moves from serving to searching – searching for more of those good feelings.
So how do we serve with good intentions for the good of others?
Like our own identity, our service to others must be rooted in Christ. Service is a seed. And that seed, if rooted in Christ, will flourish and create space for relationships to grow. Friends, we are called to live lives that flourish. And to flourish, we must have flourishing relationships – those relationships characterized by meaningful connection and purposeful activities that help others grow.
Got it! How do I get started? Where can I sign up to serve?
Through Compassion Week, we have the opportunity to be more like Jesus. In very practical ways, we can be “salt and light,” being a true “friend to the city” and saying “yes” to serve our others. During the week of August 6 through August 12, you can join your church to serve the city. We will gather together to help meet the needs of others in our community, to reach people with the Gospel, and add value in small and big ways. And this is only made possible your “yes” to serve.
We are so grateful for the small and big ways that we as a church add value to the Kingdom. Your individual service has the potential to impact so many. Your act of kindness, no matter how small, will create a ripple for good in the Kingdom.
To learn more about Compassion Week and to register, go to www.vineyardcolumbus.org/serve.
