I was watching American Ninja Warrior with my 10-year-old grandson recently when I saw a contestant with 1 Peter 4:10 written on his chest. I immediately opened my bible. The bible notes with this verse that “Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God’s grace in its various forms.” My definition of this verse was each person has various talents and abilities that they can use to serve our God and others. If you have it why not use it?

I then had a flashback to the nominations process in my church for parish council chairman. The first person nominated spent five minutes telling everyone why he could not possibly be chair. He was too busy with work, home, school and other activities. When they looked at me I said I am just as busy as anyone present but cannot say no to the Lord and will accept this position. I was motivated by a higher calling. I knew I had to get out of the pew and serve.

When you think of our Lord, you immediately think of Matthew 20-28 that states “Even as the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” What motivates your volunteerism or lack of volunteerism? Too many churches have a few volunteers carrying the load for many far too long. They feel the easy way out is to say that someone else will do it. They have no ownership or spiritual accountability to serve.

My prayer for you and others is to get into the game. Serve your church and community based upon your talents, interest and passion for a cause. Everyone is needed and appreciated when serving our Lord. When you are truly engaged you will feel a sense of joy you have never experienced before. You will understand how it is truly a blessing to help others through your talents.

Never shortchange your contribution to an organization. You never know what will happen unless you try something new. It is a combination of quality and quantity that wins the day. There will always be a place at the table for those that serve. Quit thinking why you cannot volunteer. Change your attitude today and join others in service. Do not let the same people work over and over again. It is not fair to them or your organization. New views and perspectives are like water to a plant. It will make the church grow and prosper.

“Then I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, ‘Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?’ Then I said, Here am I. Send me!” Isaiah 6:8. Don’t just talk the talk. We need parishioners and the church family to walk the walk, in the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Are you sitting in the pew watching others or finally getting out of the pew and serving?