Slideshow image

I talk a lot about volunteering. Like, a lot. Sometimes I wonder if people start running the other direction when they see me coming because they know what’s coming next: “Hi, can you help with this?” Whether it’s a committee, a work team, helping with children or adults, pitching in with the youth, serving a meal, or setting up for an event—I’m almost always inviting someone to jump in and be part of something. I’m sure there are times when folks think, “Does she ever stop asking?”

 And I get it. I really do.

When I first started in ministry, I dreaded asking. I’d rather have eaten cold brussels sprouts than call someone up and say, “Would you be willing to help with…?” I took every “no” so personally, and every “I’ll think about it” felt like a slow-motion letdown. I hated the idea of intruding on someone’s already overflowing schedule. I felt like I was asking too much.

Then one day, something shifted.

I don’t even remember the exact moment anymore—yes, my memory is not the best—but I remember the feeling. There was a Christmas party being planned for foster children, and I wasn’t asked to help. I found out after the fact, and I was crushed. That event would’ve meant the world to me. It would’ve been a bright spot in a tough season. But someone made the decision for me—assuming I had too much going on or didn’t want to be involved.

They were trying to be kind, I’m sure. But all I wanted to say was: “Let me make that choice.”

It changed how I see asking. Now, I ask freely and often—not because I expect a “yes,” but because I believe everyone deserves the chance to decide for themselves. I’ll never know if that invitation might be exactly what someone needs in that moment. And I’m okay with whatever the answer is. As I said in my sermon recently, “Sometimes you need to say no to the good things for the best things.”

So I ask. Not to guilt or pressure. Not because I like asking (trust me, it’s still not my favorite thing). But because I believe volunteering is more than just getting a job done—it’s a holy opportunity.

Volunteering lets us give back, yes. But it also invites us to give up some control. To become part of something bigger. To let God lead. It’s a way of trusting that the things we’re called to do—the things that are truly ours—there will always be enough time for.

I don’t ask because I need warm bodies to fill a spot.  I ask because God has called each of us to serve. To love with our hands and feet. To live out the gospel not just in words, but in action.

So yes, I’m going to keep asking. And I’m going to keep honoring (as best I can) whatever answer you give. Because that’s between you and God.

But I’ll never stop giving you the chance to say yes—because I know how powerful that decision can be.  See you Sunday!

Peace, Pastor Tracy