“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” (Galatians 6:9)
By Jenn Watters
Several years ago, I was asked to represent my employer in a leadership program hosted by the local chamber of commerce. Part of the program consisted of participants completing a community-based project. Our group formed “Joyfully Packed” with the goal of providing backpacks filled with hygiene and comfort items to children entering foster care.
Group members reached out to businesses and acquaintances and the support was overwhelming. We accepted donations and hosted a fundraising event. The night of the fundraiser we even had a man show up during the middle of his jog and hand us a check. He explained he could not stay, but he had heard about “Joyfully Packed” and wanted to help. No one from our group knew him. Throughout our efforts, God showed up in so many unexpected ways.
Once the leadership program ended, a ceremony took place where each group presented their project to community leaders, government officials, businesses, families, and friends. As I stood on stage in front of everyone, I realized something. It wasn’t about results. The effect of the project was much more significant.
At that moment I made a promise to myself that I would continue ensuring my employer served the community. Many peers from the program also turned their focus to community stewardship. These projects were not about results, but rather effects. Leaders, businesses, and government came together and traded profit for charity, meetings for service, and managing for stewardship.
Pray
Lord, help us to remember those who need our help and respectfully help them through good works.
Reflect
How do you and your coworkers help others outside of your daily workplace routines? Could you do more?
Discuss
When have you witnessed God’s presence in the community work that you do for others? How did that work change over time?
Jennifer Watters is an experienced human resource leader who loves to study and learn about leadership. She resides in Columbus, Indiana, with her family.