A Voluntary Heart

Last time, our Life-Group discussion evolved on the following verses:

Acts 9:36-42

New International Version (NIV)

³⁶ In Joppa there was a disciple named Tabitha (in Greek her name is Dorcas); she was always doing good and helping the poor. ³⁷ About that time she became sick and died, and her body was washed and placed in an upstairs room. ³⁸ Lydda was near Joppa; so when the disciples heard that Peter was in Lydda, they sent two men to him and urged him, “Please come at once!”

³⁹ Peter went with them, and when he arrived he was taken upstairs to the room. All the widows stood around him, crying and showing him the robes and other clothing that Dorcas had made while she was still with them.

⁴⁰ Peter sent them all out of the room; then he got down on his knees and prayed. Turning toward the dead woman, he said, “Tabitha, get up.” She opened her eyes, and seeing Peter she sat up. ⁴¹ He took her by the hand and helped her to her feet. Then he called for the believers, especially the widows, and presented her to them alive. ⁴² This became known all over Joppa, and many people believed in the Lord.

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One of the questions was… when was the last time you had your community service?

I came to share my experience way back when I was in 4^th year high school. Our ‘Model Platoon’ troop served one of the barangays in our community. Being a traffic enforcer for almost 3 hours was really for me a great experience. We’re the king and queen of the road as all the commuters were definitely following our traffic signs ‘to go or to stop’.

We’re respected at the same time appreciated for a job well done. Perhaps a new faces on the road that smiled at them as they approached us. Some asked questions for directions and some were curious. Nevertheless, it was fun and nice to serve people in any walks of life. Despite of the summer heat of the sun, we never complained. It’s all because we enjoyed what we’re doing. Likewise, it was the people we met that made us to keep going on. With their gratitude, it’s enough for us to feel valued and appreciated.

With that experience, I realized how significant each individual in our society. Being a traffic enforcer --- just like a teacher, is a noble profession too. Their contribution in the community is significant. In as much as I also salute all the volunteers with their relentless help and service to make the society a better place to live and to embrace. Aside from helping the needy, it was the joy in serving God’s people that makes a volunteer’s heart happier. It can’t be measured in any amount of money but can create an immeasurable overflowing happiness, self-fulfillment and a feeling of being blessed. 

Lastly, our Life Group ended with an agreement to extend our time for 'Community at heart' on December which is fast approaching... an exciting event to experience again! =)