Scripture

Ephesians 2:10

For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.

Story of Belonging 

Ever since I became part of a church family at the age of 17, the Church has always found meaningful ways for me to contribute and build a life.

As a newly baptized teenager at Beecher Hills Baptist, I started writing a weekly newsletter. It was distributed every Sunday morning and became a favorite among both adults and my friends in the youth group.

At church, my girlfriend’s mother worked for the Georgia Department of Transportation, and knowing I had a talent for drawing, she helped me land a job as a cartographer, creating city and county maps.

Seven years later, my pastor at Wieuca Baptist, Bill Self, who was actively involved in the state Baptist convention, recommended me to work at The Christian Index, the state Baptist newspaper. A few years after that, Bill once again recommended me for a position as the public relations officer at Shorter College, a small school in Rome, Georgia. After 15 years at Shorter, my church family stepped in once again. A friend from Wieuca hired me to work as a property manager for rental homes in the scenic Gulf Coast town of Seaside, Florida.

Later, as a member of First Baptist in Mobile, where Chris George served as pastor, I became part of the church staff, producing their weekly publications.

Twelve years ago, after returning to Atlanta, I found that even in retirement, I was busy. Smoke Rise Baptist Church provided me with opportunities for service, from substituting for office staff to caring for pets for many of my church family members. The Church has been there for me, guiding me through each season of my life.

– Mike Jones

Pondering

How have the people of God helped guide you along your journey?

In what ways has the Church woven itself into the fabric of your life?

Prayer

Dear God,
May we, as Your people, find ways to actively participate in one another’s lives. Encourage us to recognize and celebrate the unique gifts You’ve placed within us, and to share them generously for the good of Your Kingdom. Amen.