A New Kind of FamilySample

You Belong—and You Matter

It's one thing to feel like you belong to a community—it's another to believe you matter in it.

Scripture describes the Church as a living, breathing, spiritual body where every part has a purpose. That includes you.

In this body, there's no such thing as just a "volunteer," just "someone in the background," or just "along for the ride." Every person brings something significant to this community.

• Some encourage—they're the ones who notice when someone's struggling, and they speak life into them.
• Some teach—not always on a stage, but in how they explain truth and lead conversations.
• Some serve quietly—stacking chairs, setting up the room, or checking in on someone who's hurting.
• Some listen—really listen—and help others feel seen and heard.
• Some lead worship. Some lead by example. Some lead by simply showing up when it counts.
• Some invite others in when no one else does.

And when even one of those people goes missing, the whole body feels it.

Maybe you've looked around at your church and wondered if there is a place you can belong. Your church might not give you many opportunities right now. Don't let that stop you. Keep looking for ways you can serve and contribute. Reach out to your community. Encourage others, listen to people who need someone to see them, invite people to worship with you.

You weren't meant to be a spectator in God's family. You're an essential part of it.

Next time, we'll talk about what this family was made for—and how it doesn't stop with us.