Out There

Our youth group recently returned from their annual mission trip. Wednesday evening they hosted a discussion before the church to explain where they went, what they did, share funny stories, and generally fill us in on all things mission trip. It was a great way for our youth to show the rest of our congregation how important it is to get outside the walls of the church, to go "out there," and serve others in the name of Jesus.

That sort of service is absolutely crucial. Christ calls us to be servants to others, and our service benefits everyone involved. Those whom we serve hear the Gospel of Christ and receive help in practical ways as well. Those who do the serving grow in holiness and love. Missions are an effective means of evangelism, if for no other reason than the answer to "Why are you doing this?" is "Because Jesus loves you."

Missions work can be done anywhere. Sometimes it's a formal trip to another part of the world (or part of the country). Sometimes it's helping out in your own community. So what can we at RSCC do? Here are a few ideas:

• Domestic mission trips

• International mission trips

• Prison ministry

• Meal packing events (putting together bundles of food to send overseas)

• "Meals on wheels" types of programs

• Addiction support groups such as Celebrate Recovery or Steps to Freedom

• Support groups for other people such as single parents or divorced persons

Any and all of these can be done any any church if the staff and members value getting out there and serving others.

What would you add to the list?