Serve…Creatively

There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit. There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. There are different kinds of working, but the same God works all of them in all men. (1 Corinthians 12:4-6)

In this chapter on spiritual gifts, Paul tells us that we are each led by the Holy Spirit to work in unique and individual ways. There is no formula, no ritualistic way to serve. Instead, God moves us to use those gifts He has given to each of us.

So then, what is service? What does it look like? How do we serve? We serve out of a creativity born of our distinctive God-given talents and abilities. We look at what we have available to us, what we can do well, what we enjoy doing, and we use that to reach others and share with them the joyous message of God’s love.

Still stumped? Well, here are some examples of how Nazarenes have creatively used their gifts to serve others:

-          Two Nazarenes started the company “Clean the World.” They collect unused soap and shampoo from hotels. They sanitize it, repackage it, and then send it around the world. It is distributed by relief organizations to prevent the spread of illness while giving the comfort of cleanliness. Revolutionary recycling.

-          The Lifeblood youth group at the First Church of the Nazarene in Warrensburg, Missouri got tech savvy to raise funds for Haiti earthquake and hunger relief. They play the original video game PONG live online for donations. Complete with chat, game cams, and player cams, it is an interactive marathon of PONG. That is creative service!

-          Through the Nazarene 30 Hour Famine, hundreds of Nazarene youth groups go without food for a 30 hour stretch once a year to raise awareness about and funds to relieve hunger around the world. Not eating. Simple enough, but it makes a difference in lives.

-          Bloomington, IL First Church of the Nazarene was energized by a sermon on the parable of the talents. Congregants used small loans made by the church ($5 - $100) to multiply them for relief to Haiti. Challenged to use their talents, some made scarves and sold them on facebook, others gave parents a break with a kids only movie night. One family baked cookies, and another put on a puppet show.

As they use their various talents, these creative servants share the message of hope, love, and comfort of Christ with others. They work to end hunger and relieve suffering. They prevent disease and rebuild homes. They share the gospel and save lives.

So how can we serve? How can you serve? Well, can you knit or play an instrument? Do you know how to fix cars or make lemonade? Are you a good listener or a good teacher? God has given you talents. Get creative with them for His service.

For more ideas on how individuals, families, and churches can serve creatively and compassionately, visit www.ncm.org/act/compassionatelifestyle/.