Many years ago Parkridge had a slogan, “The bottom line is changed lives.”  After a few years of putting that on our newsletters, website and bulletins it dawned on the pastoral team that perhaps that slogan didn’t quite convey what is expected from us as disciples of Christ.  It’s one thing to be changed, it’s another thing to grow in our walk with Him.

So, we changed our slogan to “Changed lives, serving together.”  Did you notice the change?  It happened a couple years ago.  If you look around the church you’ll see it.  You were created to worship God.  He wants, even desires this from you.  One of the best ways we can worship Him is to offer our bodies as living sacrifices (Romans 12: 1).  When we changed our slogan we also adopted, what we call, the “Four Banners.”  They’re hanging in the auditorium today.  The first banner is “Connect to God,” second is “Connect to People,” third is “Connect to Ministry,” and, fourth is “Connect others to God.”  

As we desire to grow in our walk “the banners” are a great resource to asses where you are in your walk with Christ.  Are you attending church faithfully?  Then you are in the “first banner.”  Have you joined a small group?  You’ve stepped into the “second banner.”  Are you serving the body of Christ?  Then you can say you’re in the “third banner.”  Have you gone on a mission trip?  Have you brought a friend to church?  Have you shared your faith with someone lately?  If so then you have experienced the “fourth banner.”  

It’s really quite simple.  In order to grow in your walk you must walk through the “banner processes.”  I have a challenge for you today; I want to ask you a question.  Where are you within the banners?  Once you’ve identified your position, make it a goal to move toward the next banner.  Find a small group, find a place to serve or find a mission and GO!

Being involved in ministry and serving the body of Christ is the greatest thing we can do this side of heaven.  By serving we are engaged in the lives of others.  You’re able to focus on the needs of others and not so much your own needs.  If you have children, you can set the example for the next generation.  Not to mention, those who are involved in ministry and find a place of service tend to be happier with their church and stay in church longer.  It just makes sense – you have a bigger purpose to be at church; to worship Him through serving.

Want to get serving? Email me.

-Brad