Lake Deaton at Home

Writer’s Name: Robert Cosmai

Writer’s Ministry: Trustee, Grow Night, Worship (usher)

Scripture: Isaiah 11:1-10Mark 10:45 “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as ransom for many.”

Before retiring to The Villages, my primary focus was on my career and family.  Although we attended church, our participation was limited because I was transferred around the country so often.  When I prayed to God, I only asked him what he could do for me and my family.  I never really thanked him for the blessings he bestowed on us.

Since I was raised a Catholic, I was expected to go to confession and say a prayer for forgiveness.  The focus was only on me and any sins I was committing.  I never learned how to pray.  I never learned about the importance of serving others.  I never learned how to give thanks to our Lord and Savior.  It was only when I retired and became a member at Lake Deaton UMC that I finally learned about serving others and by doing so, I am serving Jesus.

I now start my day by asking God to speak to me about what I can do to help others and to show me the way.  We are saved by Jesus so that we can serve him by serving others.  I was slow at first to accept the “ALL IN” challenge until one of the LDUMC members invited me to join him in serving dinners and cleaning up on Grow Night.  I then became an usher and eventually was invited to become a Trustee.  The satisfaction I receive from these activities rates right up there with anything I ever accomplished in my business career.  It is a pleasure to serve and know that I am doing God’s work.  Anyone can serve if they are willing to do so.  All you have to do is ask God for guidance, and he will gladly show you the way.

Daily Prayer:  Heavenly Father, I am so grateful for the love you show me every day.  Please help me to show that love to others by serving them the way Jesus did.  In Jesus’ name, I pray, Amen.

Discussion:

1. What can you do to become a disciple of Jesus?
2. Have you asked God to lead you to serve others?
3. Do you feel fulfilled as a member of Lake Deaton UMC or can you do more?