Through different serving opportunities and events with Watermark and Watermark’s ministry partners, many people have found ways to use their gifts to serve their neighbors and the surrounding cities. As you read what they’ve learned through their time serving, consider which ministries may help you better serve and love your neighbors intentionally this year. Find out more at watermark.org/loveyourneighbor
“I have learned that the Lord has given every one of us different gifts to grow His Kingdom. One of those gifts He’s given me is being bilingual. Not everybody gets to have that gift. This realization put a love in my heart for those who are Spanish speakers. A normal Sunday at Watermark is not normal for any culture, but specifically in my own story and culture, I did not experience Christ’s people and Word like this. In many churches and places in the world, it’s not normal to be transparent, authentic, and find grace instead of shame. If there is an opportunity for me to love someone who looks like me, sounds like me, and is from where I am from, I need to take that opportunity to share Jesus.” – Martha Illarramendi, Watermark en Español
“I always dream about going on mission in India and places around the world, but it is important to know that God has brought the nations to our backyard, and He continues to do so. I’ve asked myself, ‘How do you think you can go to India to share the gospel if you can’t engage at your local grocery store?’ It takes two minutes to have a conversation and share the love of Christ with a stranger. I don’t fully know what difference I am making when I serve, but I know that God is not only fulfilling part of His plan for the people I engage with, but He is also doing what He promised to do in me. I am aware that the purpose of my day isn’t to get my to-do’s or my cooking done, but to do everything for the Lord.” – Jackie Michael, Local International Ministry
“We can be the hands and feet of Christ whether we’re helping someone get a ride to work or taking a neighbor to lunch. God calls us to come alongside those who hurt and struggle. As a Family Restoration mentor, I am able to build relationships with women who have been separated from their children for a variety of reasons. Most of these moms come from abusive households or have struggles with substance abuse, and through our friendship, I’ve been able to show them that the Lord is good and gracious.” – Martha Ryan, Family Restoration
“There is no retirement plan in the Bible. What does a guy in his 60s do? The answer is: further the gospel. After being incarcerated for seven years, I am now helping build faith communities in Texas prisons. I want people to find life transformation through Christ, and then create bridges for them when they get out of prison to have another chance at life. Prison is not a place I ever thought I would be, but my incarceration has given me a specific opportunity to serve the Lord and His people.” – Chuck Adair, Prison Ministry