For the past few years I have been looking for a ministry that fits in with my schedule of being a full time mom to two small children. I often told myself that my family was my ministry, but as I poured more of myself into parenting, I became more and more inwardly focused, which quickly became unhealthy. One of the things I knew I was lacking was an active ministry. Last year I was given the opportunity to lead a small group of college girls in a Bible study and jumped at it. I didn’t jump because I was excited about giving up time with my kids (I LOVE hanging with my kiddos), but because I knew the benefits of being in ministry far outweighed the sacrifices. See for me, ministry isn’t selfless.

 

As a young Christian in college I became a Young Life leader (Young Life is a non-denominational outreach ministry to high school and middle school students.) Through this ministry I gained a tight-knit community. As leaders we leaned on each other to do our ministry. I also had the joy of watching high schoolers decide to follow Jesus, which words cannot express the awesomeness of this experience. Being challenged by high schoolers with questions forced me to be in the Word and growing in my faith. To put it simply, sharing my faith grew my faith.

 

Now as a Bible study leader for college girls, many of whom are Young Life leaders, I am gaining the same experiences. I and my family have gained community, we love being around these amazing ladies who are following after Jesus while in college. I love that my boys have so many truly loving and giving souls around them regularly. I am challenged in my own faith and am held accountable to be in scripture and prayer, because how could I ask others to do what I am not doing? Hearing about each girl’s struggles and joys keeps me from falling into the “me, me, me,” inward-focus and helps me to remember to focus on others, which is a healthier place to be.

 

Please consider joining a ministry; meet God in His work so you can take part and go along for the ride. Because where God is working you will find challenges, but you will also find community, growth, encouragement and a deeper faith.

 

 

Mary McCready