There are a number of you who are carrying God’s love to the fatherless. Some have adopted, some serve as foster parents, some support children through Compassion International or another advocate agency, and  others give of themselves, their time, their love or their money in a host of other ways.

And this group is doing an important work in God’s eyes. James 1:27 says, “Religion that is pure and undefiled before God, the Father, is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction, and to keep oneself unstained from the world.” And Isaiah 1:17 plainly says, “Defend the cause of the fatherless…”

So take a minute and let us know how you (or someone you know) is carrying out this ministry that is so dear to God’s heart.

Please join us in the Function Hall anytime this coming Sunday morning (5/16) for the DEC Ministry Fair. This is a great place to see the big picture - what DEC is doing through its ministries, and how you might serve at DEC. I can almost guarantee there’s more going on and more opportunities to serve than you expect!

If you’re unsure of how to get involved at DEC - or if you’re under the assumption that all the ministries are “all set” without you - THIS IS THE PLACE TO BE!

For the record, we don’t even look at ministry like that. One of DEC’s big values is Serving Together. That’s because Jesus has gifted you and called you to serve. He has placed you in this church to be a blessing to others. And He invites you to find real Life as a Christian by giving your life away. Sometimes people just don’t know this, so consider the following Scriptures.

Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of service, but the same Lord; and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who empowers them all in everyone. To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good. (1 Corinthians 4:4-7 ESV, emphasis added)

For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another. (Galatians 5:13 ESV)

For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will find it. (Matthew 16:25 ESV)

Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord. (Romans 12:11 ESV - ouch! I think that one was for me!)

In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven. (Matthew 5:16 ESV)

Serving God in a DEC ministry is a great way to give glory to God, using your life and time and gifts in a way that says, “God is worth serving! Building His Kingdom is the best investment I could make!”

The Worship Ministry has lots of different places for people to serve - and they’re not all on stage! They don’t happen all on Sundays!  It’s not only for musicians!  Did you know that? Come to our table and find out more.

So if there’s any question in your mind: YOU BELONG HERE! God has a place for you to serve, build His Kingdom and taste the joy that is found by following in His footsteps.

See you downstairs this Sunday!

In light of this weekend’s message by Derek Williams of Forgotten Stories, it seems timely to ask, “Where is God calling you to serve?”

But what I mean is this:  If you knew you couldn’t fail, and you had more faith than fear, where would you say God is calling you to use your gifts to serve Him?

Somewhere in the community? On the job? Make a movie? With a neighbor? Overseas? In the worship ministry?    Where is it?