Pastor Jon elaborated on Chris Parker's message last week by explaining that serving is a key part of what it means to follow Jesus. He introduced the story of Stephen; a young man who had a heart geared for service and who continually blessed others in his congregation. Stephen intently waited on God's word, even in the face of extreme opposition. Pastor Jon explained that Stephen used what little he had (a willingness to serve and being available to serve). God blessed him with His Spirit and used him to preach a message that was recorded in Acts 7. A characteristic trait of church plants is for pastors to be the primary cleaners, carpenters, ministers, worship leaders, and resource for their congregations. However, as churches grow, Pastor Jon concluded that they should discover gifts that other people have so everyone can enjoy the gift of service. He also explained that in even the most difficult of situations, God has the power not only to pull us through, but to also use our stories as a testimony for others who are struggling through similar circumstances. At the conclusion of the message, Matthew 14:15-16 was shared: "That evening the disciples came to him and said, "This is a remote place, and it's already getting late. Send the crowds away so they can go to the villages and buy food for themselves." But Jesus said, "That isn't necessary, you feed them." This call to action from Jesus in the story where Jesus fed the five thousand is a picture of what it means to ask the question: what's in your hand?
