This past Sunday, the New York City Mission Team shared stories from their recent trip, and it was clear that the experience was more than just a mission—it was a powerful reminder of what it means to live with compassion and a servant’s heart. Listening to what they encountered, it was easy to see how much serving others can impact both those being served and those doing the serving.

During their time in New York, the team took part in a range of activities, from handing out food to people in need to organizing a backpack giveaway for kids. But what stood out most wasn’t just the tasks they completed—it was the way they connected with the people they met. These moments gave them the chance to really connect with the people they met, offering not just help but genuine care. Every act of service showed their dedication to sharing Christ’s love in real, hands-on ways.

One theme that really shone through was the power of compassion. Compassion isn’t just feeling sorry for someone—it’s stepping into their shoes, understanding their struggles, and responding with kindness. The team encountered people from all walks of life, each with their own stories and challenges. By taking the time to listen, to share a smile, or to offer help, they were able to show God’s love in a way that goes beyond words.

Of course, serving others often means stepping out of your comfort zone. The team faced plenty of situations that were new and, at times, a bit intimidating. But it’s in those moments, when you push past your own discomfort, that the true meaning of servanthood comes to life. Serving isn’t always easy, but those small acts of humility and selflessness are where God’s love really shines through. When people choose to serve despite their own fears, they’re embodying the spirit of Christ, who came not to be served but to serve.

Living as a servant, like Jesus did, is about putting others first. It’s about noticing the needs around us and responding with love and humility. The team learned that serving isn’t about seeking recognition; it’s about doing what needs to be done, often without anyone noticing. It’s about seeing the value in every person, treating them with dignity, and showing them that they matter, no matter what they’re going through.

One of the biggest takeaways from the trip was the importance of seeing people as God sees them. In a world that often judges based on appearances or success, the team was reminded that everyone is precious in God’s eyes. Whether it was a child receiving a backpack or someone getting a meal, each act of service was a chance to show someone that they are loved and valued. This shift in perspective is what true compassion and servanthood are all about—seeing others not for their circumstances, but for who they are in God’s eyes.

The stories shared by the team also highlighted that serving isn’t just about what you give; it’s also about what you receive. There’s a deep sense of fulfillment and joy that comes from serving others, from being the hands and feet of Jesus in the world. The team’s experiences showed that in giving, you often find yourself blessed in unexpected ways. Serving opens your heart, changes your perspective, and deepens your understanding of God’s love.

This is a powerful reminder that compassion and serving are central to what it means to follow Jesus. It’s not just something to do on special occasions or mission trips—it’s a way of life that we’re called to embrace every day. Whether in our local community or halfway across the world, there are always opportunities to serve, to show compassion, and to make a difference in someone’s life.

When reflecting on how Jesus lived, it’s clear that we’re called to follow His example of servanthood. Jesus came to earth not to be served, but to serve and to give His life for others. He showed us what it means to love selflessly, to put others first, and to serve without expecting anything in return. This is the kind of life we’re called to live.

The mission team's stories are more than just memories from a trip; they challenge each of us to think about how we can serve others in our own lives. They remind us that true greatness in God’s kingdom is found in serving, in loving others as Christ has loved us, and in showing compassion to those in need.

As we continue to embrace this call to serve, let these stories inspire us to live out the love of Christ in practical ways. Let’s be people who notice the needs around us, who are willing to step out of our comfort zones, and who are ready to serve with humility and love. When we do this, we not only reflect the heart of Jesus but also experience the deep joy and fulfillment that comes from living a life of compassion and service.

Ultimately, the message is simple but profound: serving others changes us. It opens our eyes, softens our hearts, and draws us closer to God. Let these reflections encourage us to keep following Jesus’ example, serving others with love and compassion, knowing that in doing so, we’re part of God’s work here on earth.