It was while resting on a mat in a church fellowship hall that I started to re-consider how I could and should respond to the world’s needs. I was in New Orleans with a mission team comprised of fellow William and Mary Wesley Foundation students and Williamsburg UMC members doing hurricane recovery work. As a college student, I had a pretty narrow world; I was focused on personal challenges—my parents’ separation, some recent family losses, ended relationships, and navigating the demands of college life.
Rev. David Hindman, my campus minister, gently guided me through this difficult time. In his wisdom, he knew that a service trip would help me recall that others need care and compassion too. Not only were we given an opportunity to serve, but we were also exposed to how racial and socioeconomic disparities among the impacted populations resulted in worse outcomes. What changes were needed on a societal level to improve life for all?
My Christian discipleship began to awaken and deepen as I considered the intersections of faith, mercy, and justice. Our lives as people of Christian faith, and particularly as Methodists, involve personal devotion, community care, and advocacy for the most vulnerable. In short, God made us for each other.
If you need more convincing, service not only lifts our downward gaze to see all God’s children, but research shows it cultivates meaning and purpose, reduces loneliness, improves wellness and contentment, and even lowers stress!
As we mark Baptism of the Lord Sunday, we remember the vows made at our baptisms. By water and the Spirit, we renounce the spiritual forces of wickedness, reject the evil powers of this world, and repent of our sin. We accept the freedom and power God gives us to resist evil, injustice, and oppression in whatever forms they present themselves. We confess Jesus Christ as our Savior, put our whole trust in his grace, and promise to serve him as our Lord, in union with the church which Christ has opened to people of all ages, nations, and races.
How might God be stirring in your heart to serve and advocate for others?
You are invited to join me, and some friends from church and our local community, in a 4-week book study. We will read and reflect on Omkari Williams’ Micro Activism: How You Can Make A Difference in the World (Without A Bullhorn). This begins Sunday, January 19 at 6:30pm in Room 103, following The Table worship service.
There are still a few spots left!
