Serving Communities

Seeing the people, He felt compassion for them, because they were distressed and dispirited, like sheep without a shepherd. (Matt. 9:36)

As noted in the “Growing in Grace” section, one reason we grow in grace is to do good works in Christ. And one way we show forth good works is by serving our communities. We want what’s best for the people (Jeremiah 29:7) where we live. So, we pray for them, and we look for ways to enrich their lives. 

Here, we have lots of questions. We want to know, “How do we serve? How do we work together to serve our communities? Where do we start? What should we be doing as we serve? Are we in it for the long-haul? When we see people, do we feel compassion for them? Do we have the heart of Christ when we serve?” 

In thinking of that last question, we offer this idea: As a family of churches, we seek to serve our communities with the heart of Christ. And how did Jesus serve? He saw people. He prayed for them. He went to them. He felt compassion for them. He was kind to them. Moved to action, Jesus met their needs.

As our churches offer English as a Second Language (ESL) classes or Celebrate Recovery groups, we aim to do so with the gentleness of Christ. As we distribute food or read with students or provide preschool programs, we want to show the kindness of Christ. And as we travel to other communities with groups like Disaster Relief or Send Relief, we seek to serve with the sincere love of Christ. 

In the days ahead, may the Lord guide our steps. And may He guide our conversation together. Please send us your thoughts at sierrabaptistassocation@gmail.com.