But the angel said to him: “Do not be afraid, Zechariah; your prayer has been heard. Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you are to call him John. 14 He will be a joy and delight to you, and many will rejoice because of his birth, Luke 1:13-14 NIV. John lived his life and impacted many people. He fulfilled his mission by pointing people to Jesus as the savior. You also are special. Your parents gave you a beautiful name. You have the privilege of weaving your unique qualities into the lives around you, like your spouse, child, family and friends. They are changed for the better because you are part of their life story. And I am so very THANKFUL for the impact you have made in me. You are making a positive difference as you reflect the influence Jesus has made in your life. Love y’all. Text to my wife and daughters in love – July 30, 2018
Jesus said he came to this world not to be served, but to serve others. Leaving a lasting impact in others lives will include serving. It’s non-glamorous. It’s repetitive. It’s redundant. It’s titleless. It receives no accolades. It’s wearisome. And it unusually feels under appreciated.
Bringing joy and lasting influence to others is wrapped up in service. 98 percent of all church work is accomplished with unpaid volunteers who express their giftings to build up the body of Christ. As a former children’s pastor, youth pastor and senior pastor, I want to say thank you to all those who serve as Sunday school teachers, small group leaders who open their homes, church building prep and clean up, and the nursery worker who misses most of the Sunday services.
I close with the encouragement I shared nearly 4 years ago. It is still true for all of those who are followers of Jesus. As part of the body of Christ, you matter. You make a difference.
You also are special. Your parents gave you a beautiful name. You have the privilege of weaving your unique qualities into the lives around you, like your spouse, child, family and friends. They are changed for the better because you are part of their life story. And I am so very THANKFUL for the impact you have made in me. You are making a positive difference as you reflect the influence Jesus has made in your life.
Blessings Love y’all