Unexpected JesusSýnishorn

There are so many unexpected things we have learned about Jesus and will continue to see. One of the biggest things to take away from this time is His ability to serve unexpectedly. Dallas Willard says, “When we live in the kingdom of God by the Spirit of God, our lives are constantly overflowing with goodness and mercy. We do not make this happen. It is a gift, and we receive it. The best advice about how to go to heaven is to go now by living your life with God.” Living our lives with God now is living as Jesus does and that means we should serve unexpectedly. Below is a list of ideas to serve unexpectedly today. This isn’t just a one-day event, but add this to your everyday lives.

1.At Home

• Do a household chore that someone else normally does (dishes, laundry, taking out the trash).
• Make someone’s favorite meal or coffee without them asking.
• Leave a kind note or small gift in a family member’s room.

2.At Work or School

• Bring a coworker or classmate a treat (coffee, snack, or lunch).
• Offer to help with a task they are struggling with.
• Write a note of encouragement and leave it on their desk.

3.In Your Community

• Pay for the person behind you in a drive-thru.
• Return someone’s grocery cart at the store.
• Surprise a neighbor by bringing flowers, a meal, or helping with yard work.

4.At Church

• Volunteer—jump in to help with set-up, cleaning, or childcare.
• Pray for someone in the moment instead of just saying, “I’ll pray for you.”
• Send a thoughtful message to your pastor, worship leader, or a volunteer thanking them for their service.

5.For the Lonely or Hurting

• Visit someone who is homebound or in a nursing home.
• Write a letter to someone going through a hard time.
• Offer a ride to someone who doesn’t have transportation.