I have been volunteering at Elevation for about a year and a half now. I have always liked it, but lately I have loved it! Since I had Alyse, my responsibilities at the church have changed. I use to lead worship and a small group in E-kids. I was a greeter, was on nursery duty a few times, and have worked in the church office. All of those things are great, and I enjoyed them, but now I have new things that I do.
I am now the "Staff Family Coordinator". I am not really sure what the title means, but basically my job is to take care of the staff, especially the wives. It really is a great job! It makes me so happy to be able to help them out. Growing up in a pastor's home showed me how much the whole family gives to the ministry. I am glad that I can show them a little love! I also help Lori, Pastor Steven's assistant. She is so sweet, and so busy. I am glad to take some things off her shoulders. I wish that she would let me help her more.
Anyway, yesterday, you may have noticed that I said I was making dinner for a friend. That friend is Pastor Steven Furtick. You see, Holly, his wife, is out of town. Lori and I talked about it, and I made him some food since he is on his own this week. I love to cook, so I was glad that I could help to take care of him. I consider it part of my job! Well, tonight we had a leadership meeting. I went and was very surprised with Pastor Steven recognized little me in front of the 200 or so people gathered in the room. Then I heard from Kelly that he had also thanked me on his blog. (I read his blog everyday. I don't know how I missed it yesterday!) I was shocked.
Now, I tell you all this to let you know that yes, I was honored and proud when Pastor Steven recognized me, but I didn't do it for that. I did it because I love my Pastor. I love his wife. I love the rest of the staff and their wives. I don't consider it a chore to make food, find a babysitter, or run an errand. I consider it an honor. And I don't do it just for them. I do it as my own personal ministry. I want to be a friend and an encourager to the people who are helping to live out our mission: so that people who are far from God will be filled with life in Christ.
