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I am among you as one who serves. Luke 22:27

It’s National Volunteer Appreciation Week, and the theme is “Celebrate Service!” Desert Cross has so many dedicated volunteers who serve in so many ways with their hands, hearts, and spirits! We have a lot to celebrate! I am grateful for all of our volunteers who serve at church, at home, and in the community. Thank You, Desert Cross!

As the Apostle Paul writes, “It is better to give than to receive.” This is so true when serving others. This year I am volunteering weekly as a Reading Buddy at Step Up Schools in Mesa which I discovered as an opportunity in our Desert Cross Serves email. It has been such a joy to read with 2nd and 3rd graders at the school that we support through our school supply drives and hunger jars. Step Up School is a beacon of hope and education for these children, and they have a bright future!

What stands out to you in the word cloud? For me the word “honor” jumps out. It is truly an honor to serve. St. Paul writes in Ephesians 6:7, “Serve wholeheartedly, as if you were serving the Lord, not people.” It is our highest calling from our Lord who came to serve and sends us out to do the same. Mission and service are the cornerstone of our ministry, so we are working toward our 40-hour volunteer challenge for each person as we celebrate our 40thanniversary. Some have already accomplished this goal – way to go! Thank you for all the ways you share your faith and your hearts in our community.

Celebrate service, Pastor Andrea