Why Do What You Do?

Why do you do it? How do you do it? I don't know how you do it.

This week I have been thinking a lot about these questions. And, its not what you really think. It's not the "How do you do it with your husband deployed?" question. It's been more along the lines of why do you volunteer for the things you do? I often deflect this question with a joke about my inability to say no. (Which I will admit holds some truth,) I have struggled with these questions. There are times my kids are in the car, running around, to ensure we can get something to someone else. I wonder sometimes if I am sacrificing my time with them to serve others; I pray often for wisdom when it comes to that. In all honesty, I am so glad my children see the body of Christ move. I am glad they see people serving one another...but that is entirely another topic.

The question is: Why do I do what I do? Why be part of the Bible studies? Why make meals? Why take the phone calls? FB questions? and emails? People have been asking me that a lot lately. And not to hurt me, but out of genuine concern for me. They remind me that my husband, too, is deployed.

There are so many reasons; but today at church, it became so clear. What is my intended purpose in this life? It is to serve God by loving people so that more people may know who Jesus is. I could stand in front of a room for months and months and give lip service to Jesus...but if I (we, the Body of Christ) don't walk it out, and put into action what we believe, its all useless. In order to really show who Jesus is and share the GOOD NEWS of what He did for us, we must meet spiritual and physical needs. Can a hungry person hear the gospel as well as one who is fed? Can a person who is at their wits end with their children or marriage hear the message of the cross as one who has been given some relief?

If we really call ourselves believers in Jesus Christ, our lives should be transformed. The gospel should transform us, our Bible Study groups, our communities, our Army posts, our nation. It should not keep us in our churches and groups, safe and sound. It should push us out to serve wherever and however we can. Our Pastor today, said you don't have to cross the sea to be a missionary, rather you must see the cross. If we really see the Cross, how can we not be compelled to serve?

I frequently ask God what in the world He is doing allowing me to lead a Bible study? To be among such amazing women? To be allowed leadership? I am not just a broken vessel; there are days I feel shattered. I struggle with weight issues, I struggle with anxiety...and the list goes on and on. But, for some reason, He has given me this platform. And, I will use it to serve at every chance I get. Why? Because, I look around and see people that Jesus loves, I see people who do not know Him...


The better question...How can I not?