The secret to serving is: Awareness and compassion leads to action.

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As we become more aware of and moved by the needs around us, we won’t be able to stop serving.

Let’s unpack these 3 words:

• Awareness: When it comes to service, so many people think they have to go somewhere and serve when a lot of times, service is in your own backyard. The key to service is to look around you and recognize those who are hurting. Pay attention to those who are close to you (family, neighbors, friends, co-workers). You will be surprised as you discover the needs around you.
• Compassion: As you identify those who are hurting, you will become more considerate and have a burning desire to help. Ask the question, “What breaks God’s heart?” Let empathy stir within you. Time and time again, our Savior Jesus Christ was moved with compassion towards the broken-hearted and sick (Matthew 14:14; Matthew 15:32; Mark 1:40-41; Luke 7:11-13).
• Action: Once you discover their needs, offer assistance. Don’t ask them, “Do you need anything?” That’s a yes or no answer, and people usually say they don’t need anything. Instead ask, “How can I help you?” This forces them to give you an answer of some kind. It also shows them that you really care.

Something happens to us during the Christmas holidays where we are compelled to serve and give. I encourage you to give generously and cheerfully to what moves you and what comes up (2 Corinthians 9:7).

If you are wanting to serve and don’t know where to start, I would talk to your pastor about how you can better serve your community. I would also get involved in a local ministry or non-profit. They are always looking for help. Remember not to schedule your day so tight that you leave little room to help those close (in relationship and proximity) to you.

Let this Christmas season begin something special. Don’t simply serve 1 time a year, let it become who you are.

“In all things I have shown you that by working hard in this way we must help the weak and remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how He Himself said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.'” – Acts 20:35