Session 23

You are a vital part of the church family

From Mark: A 6-Week Devotional

When a soccer player gets a red card, it affects the whole team. A red card puts the offending player out of the game, which means the team must now play a man down — 10 versus 11. With 10 players, the team is still in the game, but the style of play changes. Instead of charging toward the goal, the team plays cautiously, defensively.

Just as it’s not ideal playing 10 versus 11 in soccer, it’s not God’s plan for His church to be a man down. We are not embracing our God-given purpose when we’re sitting on the sidelines. Jesus gives us gifts, talents, and abilities to share His good news with the world.

Jesus gave His life to His followers. He taught thousands, healed multitudes, and held children in His arms. Jesus showed, through His life and words, that everyone has an opportunity to serve others and share the hope we have in Him. Just like Jesus put others before Himself, He challenges us to do the same saying, “Anyone who wants to be first must be the very last, and servant of all” (Mark 9:35).

You are too valuable to sit on the sidelines. You can affect the lives of those around you in a way that no one else can. When we’re all on the field impacting others for Christ, the good news of salvation goes farther and changes more lives than we ever thought possible.

Reflect:

• Think about the people you encounter every day. What’s one way you can meet someone’s needs and serve them today?
• What are you good at? What do you enjoy doing? How might God want to use those skills and abilities in the church?
• If you not already serving, that might be your next step. Learn about opportunities to serve at NewSpring by joining us at Connect.