Following Jesus and Serving Others
Volunteering at Feed My Sheep has been a profound and transformative experience, reshaping not only my perspective on community but also deepening my relationship with Christ. FMS is dedicated to serving those experiencing homelessness and poverty in our community, but goes beyond merely providing food. It offers a holistic approach, including creative outlets, classes, counseling, and assistance with practical matters like obtaining IDs. My time spent at FMS has illuminated the essence of service as it pertains to following Jesus.
At the heart of following Jesus lies the call to love God and love others. Volunteering at FMS has provided a tangible platform to embody these principles. The daily interactions with those facing trauma and hardship have challenged my preconceptions and allowed me to witness the character of God in new ways. Loving and serving others isn’t just about accomplishing a task out of sense of duty or guilt or feeling better about yourself; it's about recognizing the inherent worth of each person as a child of God, acknowledging their struggles, and making yourself available for God to use you to minister to them.
The counseling and social work aspects of FMS have been instrumental in showcasing the transformative power of compassion. Through one-on-one discussions, I've witnessed firsthand the impact of empathetic listening and the importance of addressing not only the immediate physical needs but also the emotional and psychological aspects of poverty, addiction, and homelessness. Knowing Jesus, and having received so much grace and mercy, has allowed me to approach these interactions and relationships with a kind of compassion and empathy which would be difficult otherwise.
FMS's creative outlets and classes not only offer opportunities to see emotional healing in a new way, but also reflects the creative aspect of God’s character in His image-bearers. By fostering an environment where people can explore their talents and acquire new skills and passions, FMS shows the biblical belief that everyone is endowed with unique gifts and potential, given by God to serve others.
The emphasis on community building at FMS mirrors the Christian principle of fellowship. As I engage with fellow volunteers and participants, the sense of unity transcends socio-economic backgrounds and any other differences. Together, we create a supportive community that goes beyond the immediate task at hand, fostering lasting connections and a shared commitment to encourage and support one another.
In serving those who need it most, my walk with Christ has had room to go beyond knowledge and find practical application. The teachings of love, compassion, and selflessness have evolved from beliefs and concepts to tangible actions. The experience reinforces the understanding that true faith in Christ is not confined within the walls of a church but extends into the streets, reaching those in need.
Volunteering at Feed My Sheep has been eternally beneficial, reshaping my walk with Jesus. The holistic approach of FMS aligns seamlessly with the commands of the Bible, emphasizing love, compassion, and service to others. As I continue to be a part of FMS, I am grateful for the opportunity to witness the profound ways God uses the obedience of His children in the community to minister to those serving and to those being served.
