About the Theme
Serve Boldly
This year’s “Serve Boldly” theme reminds us that our actions illustrate and bear witness to our faith. We are to be “doers” of the Word, not just “Hearers” (James 1:22). The “doing” is an act of love. In Matthew 22:36-40 Jesus teaches us that the greatest commandment is to love God with all your heart, and all your soul and all your mind. And the second commandment is to love your neighbor as yourself. There are many ways we can love our neighbors but Jesus makes this concept clearer in Matthew 25:34-40 with some examples from daily life; Feed those who are hungry, give water to those who are thirsty, take in the stranger, clothe the naked, visit the sick and those in prison. Basically we should help people who need help. When we do these things, its also an act of love toward Jesus. How cool is that?
It sort of sounds like committing these acts of love and service could be quite a challenge. Feeding, clothing, visiting and otherwise helping people may take a lot of time and resources. Don’t be fooled. Most of us don’t know how to organize mission trips or build homes for the homeless. But even the smallest act of kindness or assistance is an act of love and service. It may be as simple as a kind word, a hug or listening and supporting someone working through a tough time. Sending a card or letter to someone who’s down, may be just what they need to feel better. God doesn’t expect us to do things that are beyond our capabilities. In creation, God gave us gifts. Each of us has different gifts and talents, and God expects us to put those gifts to good use in helping others however we can, within our capabilities.
Our service to others isn’t for the purpose of gaining favor with God. Instead it’s a response to His love. Because God first loved us and sent Jesus to save us from sin and death, we are free to do works of love and kindness to others. We are created by God, gifted by God and free to serve. We should therefore Serve Boldly, spreading God’s love to others using our gifts in service.
Keep these things in mind throughout the weekend. Look for other Bible passages that speak of service to others. Try Galatians 5:13-15, John 10:25-27, 1-John 3:16-18, Romans 12, Luke 22:26-27, Matthew 23:11-12, or others that you may find.
Registration Details
This year all Hammo participants will have an opportunity to Serve Boldly by working on service projects scheduled for Saturday during the event. Projects have been organized as follows:
A) Improve health conditions/supplies and advocate for health (at the park)
B) Help fight hunger, promote good nutrition and advocate for the hungry (off-site)
C) Support and provide comfort for soldiers and their families (at the park)
D) Help the local communities with clean-up and maintenance or painting (may be at the park or off-site)
Participation is by youth group. Transportation will be needed if your group does off-site service.
IMPPORTANT!! Be sure to indicate your group’s service project preferences (A, B, C, or D as shown above) on the Group Registration form.
