Least-Popular Volunteer Positions:
1. Javelin catcher
2. Patient for student dentists
3. Diaper changer at a daycare center
4. Bullet-proof vest tester
5. Hospital bedpan emptier
6. Human crash-test dummy
Then I heard the voice of the LORD saying, "Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?" And I said, "Here am I. Send me!"
Isaiah 6:8
Here's a situation that may seem familiar to you: In class, your teacher asks a question about something you forgot to study. Then she starts looking around the room for someone to answer it. You slink down in your seat, trying to make yourself invisible--praying that she won't pick you. Ever had an experience like that?
Unfortunately, many believers react the same way when it comes time to serve God. When they see a need or a service opportunity, they do everything they can to make themselves invisible, hoping that God will pick someone else to get involved.
And that's a mistake.
You see, Christian service isn't just about helping others. It's about pleasing God and drawing closer to him. The best way to strengthen your bond with your heavenly Father is through obedient acts of service. If you decline the opportunities he gives you to serve him, you're the one who will lose in the long run.
The good news is that God gives second chances. Right now, he may be looking for someone to explain forgiveness to a student at school who's struggling with guilt. He may be looking for someone to start a winter coat collection for the homeless people in your community. He may be looking for someone to share his love by hanging out with the guy at church who no one can stand.
Will you be that person? Will you step up to the plate like Isaiah did and say, "Here am I--send me"? Don't let excuses like busyness or inexperience stand in your way. Few people have enough free time to get involved in service projects. People who are serious about service make time. And most people who volunteer for service work have no idea what they're doing. However, they learn very quickly that when God calls someone, he also equips that person. He will not let a small matter such as lack of experience stand in the way of his work being done.
So what are you waiting for? It's time to volunteer!
Read more on Isaiah's assignment from God in Isaiah 6:1-13.
