The 4th of July is a day to celebrate our great nation. Enjoy the fireworks, the great food on the grill, and especially your family and friends. The life and liberties we know as Americans represent the very best nation on earth. I am proud to be an American and especially grateful for God’s blessings upon our country. Love America and be loyal to its great principles of freedom. Pray for our leaders both local and national and do not forget those who are serving in our military defending our way of life.
We all can serve our nation by giving ourselves to ministry in our neighborhoods and communities. In our church we constantly encourage one another to be salt and light. Here are just a few ways you can bless America with God’s work:
- Volunteer to work with children and teenagers
- Serve in a Crisis Pregnancy Center
- Work in a ministry with special needs persons
- Help a widow with household physical labor
- Support a single parent with encouragement and assistance with their children
- Give a gift to the poor or a food bank
- Visit a friend or neighbor in the hospital
- Assist in a program for the addicted
- Befriend and express appreciation for a teacher (both church and school teachers), and the police and firefighters
- Mentor a college student or seminarian
- Be a part of a military ministry
And who is our neighbor? Anyone who has a need. Just as the Samaritan served the beaten man on the side of the road, we are to compassionately minister God’s grace and mercy to people who need Jesus. Sharing Jesus is a way of life for the spirit filled Christian. So enjoy the 4th and give thanks to the God of freedom who provides an abundant life to all who call upon His Name. Then turn your gratitude to active service in the church to advance God’s Kingdom on earth right where you live.
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3 comments:
Pastor Graham,
Thank you so much for this word. It blessed me. I was reminded I am responsible to my neighbor.
God Bless you!
Jack,
Two things..did you get my birthday gift???
Second did you really post this at 5:00am!!!
Roland
Thank you for the encouragement and reminder to serve others. I also think one of the ways we can serve others is by being friendly and supportive to all those around us who are in service roles, like the grocery store workers, retail workers, gas station attendants, wait staff at restaurants, etc. These people don't get paid a lot, and a friendly word and a smile go a long way with them, especially if they just dealt with a grumpy customer. I think it's part of our Christian witness to be as nice to others as we can possibly be. :-)
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