Why I Serve

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God.

2 Corinthians 1:3-4

Throughout my life I have been exceedingly blessed even during times when I was less than faithful. To this day I don’t understand why. But I have never questioned God’s love for me, demonstrated by those who served.

During Matt’s school years we had teachers, aides, therapists and case managers who looked past Matt’s disability seeing his strengths and helping us navigate the educational system – they served.

When I first began attending St Thomas, someone made a mini ramp so that I could easily negotiate Matt’s wheelchair over the sill into the building where the children’s Sunday School classes were held. Although I didn’t know who had done this kind act, it was a tangible sign of the hospitality and love I would always experience – he served.

One day while my husband was out of town on business I got sick right after dropping Matt off at the bus stop and couldn’t pick him up from Day Care. Friends from St Thomas picked up the van from my house near Haymarket and then picked up Matt and brought him home – they served.

In a year of health problems, two friends came to my house and decorated my Christmas tree when I could not. They showered me with laughter, friendship and fellowship – they served.

When I have been confused or frustrated or just needed to vent, I have friends who encourage, provide insight, get me back on track when I stray and make sure I don’t take life or me too seriously – they serve.

Scripture urges us to be rich in, zealous for, devoted to and a model of good works We are even told we are created by God to do good works. Although all of these are good reasons to serve, none are the reason I serve.

I serve because I have been abundantly blessed. I serve because God loves me and loves us all. I serve because of all the times I have been the recipient of service and of love. I serve to pass on the love and comfort I have been shown. How can I do anything less?

Dear Lord, thank you for all the times you have showered us with love through both friends and strangers. Provide us with opportunities to share the loved you have lavished on us. Amen.

About Paula Renfro

Paula is retired, lives in Haymarket and is one of the three Lay Leaders.