Gospel Patrons 2.0 : Week 3

Let's start with a simple truth: life is better when we do it together. Whether you're on a sports team, part of a study group, or just hanging out with friends, there's something powerful about unity. This idea was at the heart of a recent sermon I heard, which focused on the story of Nehemiah from the Bible.

Nehemiah was a guy who saw a need and rallied people to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem. He didn't do it alone. He brought together a diverse group of people, each contributing in their own way, to achieve a common goal. This story is a perfect example of how teamwork can lead to incredible outcomes.

Serving, Sacrificing, and Stretching

The sermon highlighted three key actions that Nehemiah and his team embraced: serving, sacrificing, and stretching. These are not just ancient principles; they're relevant to us today.

1. Serving as One: Whether you're a believer or just exploring faith, serving others is a universal value. It’s about stepping up and doing your part, no matter how big or small. Imagine the impact we could have if we all committed to serving in our communities or within our circles of influence.

2. Sacrificing as One: Sacrifice might sound daunting, but it’s about prioritizing what truly matters. For some, it might mean giving up time to volunteer, while for others, it could be giving to the Lord or sharing resources with those in need. Sacrifice is about making room for something greater than ourselves.

3. Stretching as One: Growth happens outside our comfort zones. Whether it’s trying something new, having a tough conversation, or stepping into a leadership role, stretching ourselves can lead to personal and communal transformation.

It’s much easier to serve, sacrifice, and stretch ourselves when we have a shared vision. For Nehemiah, it was rebuilding the walls. For us, it might be helping one more person find what truly matters in life. Having a vision gives us something to strive for, keeping us focused and motivated.

You might be wondering, "Why should I care about this?" Well, whether you're a believer or just curious about faith, working together with a shared purpose can lead to a more fulfilling life. It’s about being part of something bigger than ourselves and making a positive impact in the world.

For those exploring faith, this is an invitation to see how community and purpose are integral to the Christian journey. For believers, it’s a reminder of our mission to connect others to Jesus and to each other.

So, what’s next? Here are a few practical steps:

- Find a Place to Serve: Look for opportunities in your community or church where you can contribute your time and talents.

- Make a Sacrifice: Identify something you can give up or change to make room for growth and impact. If you don’t currently give financially to God then let me encourage you to start there.

- Stretch Yourself: Challenge yourself to step out of your comfort zone in one area of your life this week.

Remember, we’re all in this together. Let’s work as one for the One, making a difference in our lives and the lives of others.