A Journey of Grace
"Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others." Philippians 2:3-4
"But he said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.' Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me." 2 Corinthians 12:9
Insight
School can feel intense with grades, tests, and the pressure to perform perfectly. Thankfully, the journey of serving is refreshingly different. It's a safe space to try new things, take risks, stumble, and grow without the fear of failure. When you decide to start serving at Port City, you're not just taking on a volunteer role. You're embarking on a transformative journey - a journey of grace.
On this journey, every misstep is simply a learning opportunity in disguise. Think about it. The disciples were the first to walk this journey of grace with Jesus. He chose them not because they were the best and brightest, but for their hunger and willingness to be shaped. They were rough around the edges for sure - fishermen, tax collectors, zealots. But Jesus didn't expect perfection from them. He just expected their wholehearted participation in the process.
Over three years, Jesus guided them through some of the most intensive, personal growth training imaginable. He taught through parables and life lessons. He modeled sacrificial service. He pushed them out of their comfort zones again and again, creating experiences designed to transform them from the inside out.
The disciples didn't get it right all the time. Peter sank after walking on water. Thomas doubted. In a defining moment, they all deserted Jesus. But He never gave up on them. Why? This journey isn't about being perfect travelers. It's about being perfectly committed to the process of becoming more like the Guide.
When you serve here, you follow in the disciples' footsteps. Your service is the path, and your Guide is always present, shaping you through every up and down, every victory and misstep. Just like the disciples, your experiences aren't the journey itself - they're the adventures designed to shape your character into the image of Christ.
The beautiful thing about this journey of grace is that you are never alone. You have fellow travelers surrounding you who are on the same path. The entire church body serves as your support system, cheering you on, catching you when you fall, and celebrating your milestones with you.
On the journey of grace, there are no grades, only lessons learned. Grace covers every imperfect performance. Instead of judging your missteps, Jesus uses them as teaching moments, constantly refining you and replacing your fearful pride with humble reliance on Him.
So, don't avoid serving because you're afraid of messing up or looking unqualified. That mindset has no place on God's grace-journey. Instead, take a lesson from the disciples. Show up wholeheartedly. Stay committed to the process. Watch how Jesus takes your humble willingness and turns it into something beautiful, something reflecting more and more of His character with every step.
The journey awaits. All you have to do is take the first step.
Reflection
In what ways have you seen your character being refined through service opportunities? What personal weaknesses, blind spots, or areas for growth have been exposed? How has serving grown humility, selflessness, empathy, or other Christlike qualities?
For those who might not be serving inside the church, how can remembering that God's grace accepts you as you are, imperfections and all, free you from any hesitancy to jump in and get involved? What would it look like to start serving from a mindset of learning and growth rather than striving for perfection?
Further Practice
Write a letter to yourself from God's perspective, reminding you of His grace, love, and patience for you on this journey. With this in view, look for an opportunity to encourage someone else who is serving, whether that's through words or prayer.
Prayer
Gracious God, thank you for the journey of grace You have set before us. Give us humble and willing hearts to serve, the courage to take risks and learn from our missteps, and a desire to be transformed into the image of Christ. May our service draw us closer to You. Amen.