Add Some Service to Your Summer

Summer is well on its way in the northern hemisphere. You can almost feel the sun beating down on you and your friends at the beach.

While you're anticipating, here's something you might not have thought about for your free time: service—the act of giving up some of your time to help others.

Serving is important. The Bible tells us we should "through love serve one another" (Galatians 5:13). Yet turning service ideas into actions can be challenging in the midst of the busy, fun-filled summer months. So plan ahead. And, of course, service need not be limited to the summer. Why not make it a way of life year-round as you have the opportunity?

Who really serves?

Getting involved and helping others is not only a good thing to do, but it's also the example that Jesus Christ gave to us. His whole life was about serving others. Jesus' example of washing His disciples' feet on the eve of His Passover crucifixion was the epitome of serving others (see John 13). As He said, "I am among you as the One who serves" (Luke 22:27). Striving to imitate Christ in our lives should be a daily goal.

Get prepared—and then get out there!

How can we actually get started? Researching in advance for areas needing volunteers can help you to schedule your time wisely. It's important to learn the policies and needs of different service organizations. You will enjoy your service time more if you key into your interests when browsing various serving opportunities. Some of the most common areas where you can volunteer in America include the Ronald McDonald House, Habitat for Humanity, animal shelters, local libraries, food banks or other charities.

One of the easiest ways to get involved is to see what you can do in your local church congregation. Lots of "behind the scenes" work needs to be done to ensure that church services run smoothly. Find out who typically serves in the area you are interested in helping out in—and then go help! The best way to learn a job is to "shadow" the person in charge of that duty. Some things that you could volunteer for include setup for services, helping the sound crew, assisting with snacks and distributing announcements or hymnals. Think proactively to be alert for upcoming social events where you could help out with a meal or decorations.

Teen and preteen summer camps will take you outside of your typical summer routine. They offer great opportunities for staff members, as well as campers, to work towards a collective goal and achieve great accomplishments. While serving as a camp staff member, you build relationships with the campers as you instruct them in your activity or lead discussions as a counselor. Giving campers the opportunity to see young adults living a godly lifestyle for an entire week helps to build their personal foundation for life.

Serve for life

Serving has the potential to become a way of life as you strive to live God's way. When you take time to help others with the right attitude, you will experience great satisfaction about what you're doing. Have fun, help others and grow in your commitment to a vertical life. Find your passion in service—then serve others with passion!