Mark 10:45 tells us “For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” Help your kids understand that we can serve others because Jesus first served us. Explain to them that God has given all of us gifts, talents and resources that we can use to serve others.
· Set the example - Teaching the habit of serving starts at home. Whether it’s your spouse, other kids, neighbors or coworkers, let your kids see the way you serve others. Be intentional with showing them how they can care for other family members.
o For example, if someone isn’t feeling well, teach your kids to help make them comfortable by bringing blankets, getting snacks, putting on their favorite movie or show, bringing them a favorite toy, or just asking, “What else do you need?” By doing this, your kids will be made aware of the basic steps of compassion and kindness which are an important first step to serving.
· GPS Exercise – God has given all of us specific gifts and passions to use to serve others. Talk with your kids about their gifts (G), their passions (P), and the specific needs in your community (S).
o Use the GPS exercise to help your kids find serving opportunities. For example:
-If your kids enjoy baking, they could make treats for neighbors, teachers, ect
-Maybe they have the gift of music. They could perform songs at a nursing home.
-If they are good at art, they could create cards for others.
o Whatever they enjoy doing, help them see that they can use their skills to serve others.
· Serve with Them – Whether it’s at church or out in the community, find opportunities to be able to serve with your kids. Encourage them during this time by saying you are proud of them you are. Point out specific examples of how they showed courage or how they used their gifts.
· Continue the conversation – Ask them intentional questions like…
o What was one way you saw God at work?
o What impact/difference did you make today?
o What was your favorite part of serving?
o Was there anything scary about serving?
o How did God calm those fears?
Help your kids understand that serving others doesn’t have to be some grand gesture. They don’t have to go on a missions experience to another country to make an impact. God has already given them everything they need to make a difference in somebody's life right where they are at (home, schools, teams, ect) by using the gifts, talents and passions that He has blessed them with.