I’ve had a lot a birthdays and not that many birthday parties. My birthday is at the start of summer and there were times when friends used it as an excuse for a start-of-summer-break party or the come-back-from-college party.

Nevertheless, I don’t remember a single birthday party, except the ones my wife threw each decade. (OK, smarties, it’s not because I’ve had so many birthdays and just can’t remember much of anything!)

But I remember every mission trip I’ve gone on. The ones far away and the ones close. The ones where the work was difficult and the environment harsh. Especially those. And when I recount them to others, look at my face: I’m smiling.

Think back to your involvement in serving. Did you view it as drudgery, a heavy obligation, a boy-am-I-glad-that’s-over-with experience? No? Does a smile come to your face? It seems we forget that easily, though.

Why do you think that Trinity’s Vision attaches joy to Giving Back? Why does serving bring joy? Don’t all the commercials attach joy (and en-joyment) to… getting? The diamonds, car, computer game, beer?

Is there something about how we are made that means we delight in being able to benefit others? Especially for Christians?

Isaiah 58:5-10 talks about God not seeking fancy religious acts, but pays attention to how we treat others, especially those who are lowly. Is that how we normally act, even in church?

Then Jesus talks about [in Matthew 5:13-16] how we are the seasoning and illumination of the world. We’re not to be salt kept in salt shakers or light hidden under a basket. We’re supposed to get out there and make a difference!

Personally, I much rather be serving the punch than sitting at the head table. Is that true with you? Why do we keep forgetting that?

See you Sunday!