A Journey of Service
SUMMARY
Judge Virginia Carlton shared her personal testimony about her reluctant journey into service at Galloway Methodist Church. Initially avoiding meaningful responsibilities, she was eventually called to evaluate Pastor Lori Till’s ministry at Grace Place, which led her to discover the joy
and fulfillment found in serving others. Her journey continued as she became involved in children's ministry, greeting, and ushering, despite her initial fears and schedule concerns. Through these experiences, she learned that service to others is a reflection of our love for God and part of our Christian spiritual DNA. The message emphasized that we all have the capacity to make a difference and should prioritize serving others over our personal comfort and
schedules.
INTRO PRAYER
Heavenly Father, we gather today with grateful hearts for the opportunity to learn and grow together. We thank you for the testimonies of service and the examples of faithful living that inspire us. Open our hearts and minds to what you want to teach us through this discussion. Help us to be honest about our own reluctance to serve and give us the courage to step out of
our comfort zones. May your Spirit guide our conversation and show us how we can better serve you by serving others. In Jesus' name we pray, Amen.
ICE BREAKER
What is one activity or hobby that you really enjoy but had to rearrange your schedule to make time for?
KEY VERSES
1 Peter 4:10-11
Galatians 5:13
QUESTIONS
Judge Carlton described her journey as a 'reluctant journey of service.' What are some common reasons people might be reluctant to get involved in serving others?
She mentioned feeling unqualified to evaluate Pastor Till’s ministry because she had never been to Grace Place. How can unfamiliarity with a ministry or service opportunity actually become a blessing in disguise?
Virginia talked about prioritizing her gym time, schedule, and coffee time over service to others. What are some things in your life that you might be prioritizing over serving God and others?
The testimony mentioned that service at Grace Place became 'full circle' when her friends began praying for her during a difficult time.How have you experienced receiving blessings through your service to others?
Judge Carlton was initially nervous about working with children because she hadn't been around them in decades. What fears or insecurities might hold people back from trying new areas of service?
She learned that 'service to others is a reflection of our love and faith in God.' How does this perspective change the way we might approach opportunities to serve?
The message emphasized that we don't have a quota on emotional energy or love we can give. Why do we sometimes think we have limited capacity for serving others?
Jane Goodall was quoted as saying, 'You make a difference, and you get to choose what difference you want to make.' What difference do you feel called to make in your community or church?
LIFE APPLICATION
This week, identify one area where you have been prioritizing your comfort, schedule, or personal preferences over an opportunity to serve others. Take one concrete step to get involved - whether it's responding to an email you've been deleting, volunteering for a ministry
you've been avoiding, or simply inviting someone to a church activity. Remember that service is a reflection of your love for God.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
We serve a generous God who gave His best (His Son) for us, and our giving should reflect our identity as children of the King
Biblical giving is not about the amount but about the heart attitude - God looks at our willingness to give sacrificially
Tithing (10%) is God's biblical minimum expectation and should be given as 'first fruits' before other expenses
Generous giving demonstrates three things: trust in God's provision, prioritizing God, and giving with an attitude of joy rather than obligation.
ENDING PRAYER
Gracious God, thank you for the reminder that service to others is part of our Christian spiritual DNA. Please help us overcome our reluctance and fears about getting involved in ministry. Please give us the courage to rearrange our priorities and schedules to make room for serving you through serving others. Show us where you are calling us to make a difference, and help us to trust that you will equip us for whatever you call us to do. May we be the reason someone feels loved, seen, heard, supported, and welcomed. Transform our hearts to see service not as a burden, but as a privilege and reflection of our love for you. In Jesus' name we pray, Amen.
