August 8, 2024

During my time with ALERT, I have had the opportunity to go on many different deployments and service opportunities. These have ranged from local service projects to working with local law enforcement on search and recovery, to several international trips to assist in the packing and distribution of relief supplies for refugees and displaced persons.

With all these opportunities to serve, many consisting of monotonous and sweaty manual labor, I frequently have to remind myself of the reasons I am there serving. I can easily lose motivation or not give my heart in service when it feels as if my work is making little to no lasting impact or when the people I am trying to serve are less than appreciative. 

But these moments have been used by God to remind me of Jesus who “came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” (Matt. 20:28) and how he stayed obedient to the will of the Father even though we so often take His work for granted in our lives.

“In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works (service) and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” Matt. 5:16