Serve Joyfully
This Sunday we will continue our Vision series for the United Methodist denomination by focusing on “Serve Joyfully.” We talk about service a lot in this congregation and it is the essence of our Mission Statement. We are also very good at actually serving and not just throwing money at problems. We recognize that our service transforms our hearts as we proclaim the Way of Jesus.
As we consider those who serve, we want to honor our Veterans. As many of you know, Tuesday was Veterans Day in our country and many of the schools had programs where they sang patriotic songs and gifted those who have served our country. On Sunday, we have Poppy pins for each of the Veterans in our congregation and we want to gift them with our appreciation for you. During our prayer time we will acknowledge those who are Veterans and give thanks. The poppy flower became associated with Veterans after they grew wild over the fields in famous battle grounds in World War I. The red color is a symbol of bravery and sacrifice. The poem “In Flanders Fields” first associated the flower with remembering. This poem by French Canadian Veteran Dr. John McRae reads:
In Flanders fields the poppies blow; Between the crosses, row on row,
That mark our place; and in the sky; The larks, still bravely singing, fly
Scarce heard amid the guns below; We are the Dead. Short days ago
We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow; Loved and were loved, and now we lie,
In Flanders fields; Take up our quarrel with the foe:
To you from failing hands we throw; The torch; be yours to hold it high.
If ye break faith with us who die; We shall not sleep, though poppies grow
In Flanders fields.
McRae wrote the poem after having witnessed the April 15th Battle in Belgium Ypres salient. He spent seventeen days trying to help the wounded.
When we serve, most of us are not put in this kind of danger but the work that we do is still significant. Every little bit of help that we give matters to those whose lives are impacted by the work that we do. It matters to our lives and our spirits as we step out of our comfort zones to help. Serving gives our lives meaning and purpose. It is important that we do it with joyful hearts. Those we encounter can recognize our attitude about the work that we are doing. Sometimes it even amazes them that we would help without requiring payment. I give thanks for each of you as you learn and serve in a joyful Christ like way.
God loves you and I love you,
