The purpose of serving
Remember that scene in the Disney, Pixar film, “UP” when elderly Carl Fredericksen heard a knock on the door and opened it to welcome a boy scout named Russell?
Looking up at the man, Russell took his chance and quickly recited his handbook, “Good afternoon. My name is Russell, and I am a Wilderness Explorer in Tribe 54, Sweat Lodge 12. Are you in need of any assistance today, sir?”
“No,” grumpy Fredericksen said, disinterested in receiving any form of help.
Dedicated and persistent, this wilderness explorer was not going to give up earning his “Assisting the Elderly” badge and continued to ask how to serve in any way possible.
For years, volunteering has been recognized and practiced by different cultures throughout the world. Research even indicates how volunteering can improve health overall.
Mayo Clinic Health System published an article in 2023 emphasizing how volunteering can benefit a person’s well-being. The article informs the reader that there were plenty of cases with reduced levels of depression, stress and anxiety in participants 60 and over — showing improvements in their relationships and increased satisfaction with their quality of life.
When I think about the times I have volunteered in some way, I recognize how much I enjoy the act of service itself. Serving others is a way of not only letting the other person feel seen and appreciated, but it is also a way of saying that they are worth serving.
Volunteering is an act of sacrifice; it allows the volunteer to meet the needs of someone else. We see it in the Gospels when Jesus of Nazareth feeds the 5,000 or when he heals the sick. The act of Jesus dying on the cross for sinners is the definition of an act of sacrifice.
Volunteering shows the heart of God and what he means to a believer. People nowadays are shocked when someone notices their need and helps them in any way possible. This reminds me of the grumpy, old Fredericksen. Throughout the film, the audience can see his character development and the fondness he has for Russell. Quickly he takes the role of a caretaker, and we see the acts of service and sacrifice as he does the same for Russell at the end of the movie.
The film wraps up with Fredericksen having the privilege to pin an “Assisting the Elderly” badge to Russell. It proved the patience, love, dedication and sacrifice he demonstrated towards grumpy old Fredericksen. It is the responsibility of Christians to follow in Russell’s footsteps and volunteer service as the hands and feet of God.
Mella is an intern.