Not Just a Volunteer
By: Christie Hampton
Is “volunteer” a bad word? So often the word “volunteer” is associated with a not so good meaning, such as “a person having little value.” When approached as a volunteer, we often revert to saying, “I’m just a volunteer.”
You’re not just a volunteer, you are a disciple of Christ partnering in the sharing of the gospel and God’s love. We have staff members, but our volunteers are critical to accomplishing our mission of encouraging those who hunger to be nourished by God. Our boards who govern and minister to the church are made up of volunteers. Most of our education, music, food pantry, and worship ministries are provided by volunteers. We may be grieving the loss or transition of several wonderful staff members right now, but the heart and soul of Holy Cross is in its members.
Serving is not always easy. Serving is taxing emotionally, physically and spiritually and there are times God could be calling us out of our comfort zones. Then why do we continue to serve? When serving, we can see God working in our lives and other people’s lives. As we serve, God is transforming us to be more like him – Jesus Christ. We are being sanctified to become mature followers of Christ. He fills us up through worship and Bible study so that we can serve and pour into others.
“Being a volunteer at Holy Cross and getting to work with the youth has been such a blessing and so rewarding. Not only do I get to watch their faith grow, but my faith also grows and strengthens.” – Tamara Forbis, Affirmation Teacher
“God gives us all unique gifts, and I have felt called to contribute where I can. Working with the broadcast team has given me the chance to give back.” – Eddie Putzier, Broadcast Team
- Are you joyfully stepping up when God calls?
- Or are you having reservations about the unknown about serving?
- What gifts has God given you to use to share His love?
“As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s carried grace.” – 1 Peter 4:10.
If you are not sure what your gifts are, click here to take a spiritual gifts inventory.
“I love my God-given talents and interests, and truly enjoy exploring them. It’s that much more rewarding when you get to use them for the church, like saying thank you directly to God.” – Kelly Alexander, Hymn Leader
Volunteering offers both rewards and challenges. May God continue to encourage you and bless you with the ability to see the joy of serving in the midst of transition here at Holy Cross. Praise God for filling us with the Holy Spirit! Praise be to God, who by His grace and power commands and enables us to be His witnesses to the glory of Christ.
To show our appreciation for the tremendous role that volunteers play at Holy Cross, we are having a Volunteer Appreciation Picnic at Fox Run Regional Park on May 23, at 6 p.m. Please join us as we give thanks to God for his people and look forward to the continued and new ministry that will be done through Holy Cross.
