When I was twelve years old and until I could drive, I used to ride my bike 5-10 miles to my church just to mop the floors or clean the bathrooms, even if they didn't really need it. It was such a privilege to me to serve Christ this way and I'd do almost anything to be in church a little longer, even if it meant cleaning toilets. Why? Because God had done so much for me and given me so much joy in that place, that I wanted to give him something in return.

So, I couldn’t wait to serve - in any way possible. I watched kids, cleaned dishes, stacked song books, mopped up overflowing water in the basement when it rained, took out trash, dusted furniture, sang in the choir with the men - you name it, I did it and it was an absolute joy to serve. After all, Jesus gave his life for me.

This is why I find it so hard to understand people who refuse to serve, or make excuses for not serving in a ministry at church (assuming they are physically & emotionally well enough to do so). Serving God is a sheer honor & privilege! Even as a twelve year old I knew that!

Imagine on Judgment Day saying to God, "Well, Lord, I didn't serve you at church because I was tired or busy or felt unqualified or didn't want to use my only day off doing ministry. I know you died for me and all, and commanded me to serve, but I'm sorry God, it just wasn't for me." What do you think God might say to you?

What if he said, "Even a twelve year old knew better than that! Depart from me, I never knew you"?

Think about it.