You guys sure make church fun! I love getting to work with you and see the difference you make on the faces and in the hearts of our kids. As we get this thing rolling, I want to review some of our core operating principles or COP's, just in case you forgot (like I do too often these days) or didn't get it when you were enlisted to serve.
The first one is huge because it reflects our mission as a church, which happens to be, To help people establish a growing relationship with Jesus Christ and equip them to become difference makers in the world.
Part of a growing relationship with Christ involves managing your own spiritual development. Unless that is happening, you can't make a difference to anybody else. It's like the preflight speech you get on the airplane- "In case of an emergency, please put on your own oxygen mask before you attempt to help anyone else." So, unless you are growing in your own journey with God, you will not be effective in ministry. That's why we require all BayKids volunteers to attend one of our weekend services in addition to the service in which they serve. I know most of you do that but if you need to adjust your schedule to make that happen, let us know.
In addition, make sure you are taking time every day to meet with God. It doesn't have to be a long, boring task; it can be and should be a relaxing time to reflect on God, what He is trying to do in your life, the challenges He is calling you to, and to express your heart to Him in prayer. I find early morning to be the most productive time for me, but if you're not a morning person, don't freak out. Just make it happen at a time every day that works for you. Then you'll find this journey to be a true relationship, not a religion and it will become a source of strength and growth. Few things will impact your ability to serve effectively more than a daily, growing relationship with Christ.
