There is nothing like watching the light of service come on in a volunteer. Sometimes is happens fast. They realize that this “serve” thing really isn’t such a big deal to actually do after all. Other instances it can take some time. But, when you see it come on- you know it. They have entered the place of connection. God, ministry opportunity and me serving equals some t great potential to rock this planet.
I remember a volunteer dad and friend named Bob, who came to serve. As a father he just wanted to contribute and do his part to partner in weekend ministry with his kids by serving once a month… then offering prayers, then twice a month…then lead teaching. His prepping started on Mondays for the next weekend. He researched and came up with THE best creative lessons to keep elementary kids engaged. He connected with kids. It is a cherished memory of how his gifts bloomed. He found and felt the connection with the gifts God obviously put in him before his birth. The guy would light up when he taught kids. It all started with an ask, an invitation to join us in serving.
Who knows what treasure is in the heart of volunteers. As a leader you need to unlock it. Help it come out. Challenge them. Don’t ever make an apologetic ask for volunteers. The NEED is in people connect and make room to serve and find all that God has put in them. It may not be teaching, but greeting, or a small group leader, or worship or many other venues to connect in ministry to kids. I have enjoyed the vantage point of front row watching many awesome volunteers from nursery on up making the CONNECTION. Thanks God.