OCC | Serve
What does it mean to serve the Lord?
I think that looks different for each of us.
When I was first approached about helping with Operation Christmas Child, I didn’t know much about the ministry. But after reading story after story of children impacted by the gifts and the gospel message they received, I was all in.
I’ve always had a heart for foreign missions. Unfortunately, I’m not able-bodied enough to travel to faraway places to serve, but I can help host a packing party, gathering gifts for children who may have never heard about the free gift of salvation through Jesus Christ.
At first glance, tasks like sorting school supplies, packing hygiene bags, unboxing small toys, and fluffing teddy bears may not sound like much. But the impact goes far beyond those simple actions. I read about a mom who prayed for shoes for her son after he had outgrown his pair and had to walk to school barefoot. Her son received a shoebox with shoes that fit him perfectly – that is God at work! Another story told of a child who was thrilled to finally have his very own toothbrush after sharing one with seven family members. And one boy said his favorite part wasn’t the toys at all, but getting to attend The Greatest Journey program where he could learn more about Jesus.
Serving in this ministry has been such a joy. It reminds me of 1 Peter 4:10–11:
“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power forever and ever. Amen.”
It has been a true blessing to use the gifts God has given me and to work alongside amazing people, bringing it all together for the glory and power of Christ.
And now, as a church family, we get to serve together. There are two simple ways you can join in:
- SIGN UP to host: be part of the team that makes the event possible. Simply go to our OCC website and select “Volunteer Your Time” to pick a slot that works for you.
- SHOW UP to pack : Come pack a shoebox and experience the joy of serving. No sign-up required but be sure to mark your calendar and join us! You can also view all the Pack Party dates on the OCC website.
All the details are available at woodcreekchurch.com/occ.
Christy Wight | OCC Volunteer
Photos: Courtesy of Samaritan’s Purse