And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works.

Hebrews 10:24

Seeing Richard in church every Sunday, but never in between, brought me to begin inviting him to various church activities. He always sat in the pew right behind me, so I asked him to participate in senior group, midweek Bible class, greeting for worship services, etc., but to no avail. Finally, he agreed to help us with our Friendship Class (for the mentally and developmentally challenged). Before long, he was helping count the offerings, tending to the flowers in the front of the church, helping with rummage sales, and even serving on the church council. One day he told me he wished he had become involved sooner and thanked me for persisting. Serving God cheerfully and faithfully, we can and should encourage others to do the same.

Harriet Monn Stennfeld
Fort Wayne, IN

Dear Lord, may we always serve with joy and from the heart. Amen.

Reflect: Ask a newcomer to help in your next church project or activity.

Read: Joshua 24:15 and 1 Samuel 12:24