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For some time we've been exploring ways to reach into the lives of the friends and neighbors who live all around us. I trust the following thoughts will help stir some ideas for possible ministries where you live and serve. Before jumping in, though, carefully consider these important points that will keep you focused.

1. All of this comes from a commitment to the Great Commandment "to love the Lord your God"..."and your neighbor as yourself." It is all done in a spirit of servanthood that genuinely looks out for the best interests of the ones being served. There should be a "no strings attached" attitude. Some we serve will respond in kind and be very open and interested in getting to know us and finding out more about our faith. However, others will enjoy being ministered to but will draw a line when it comes to matters of faith. We should not take this personally or reject them if they seem uninterested in learning more of Christ or becoming involved in our local church. Our goal is not for folks to join our church but to see Jesus Christ as He lives through us. Therefore, we are looking for an unconditional love to be shown.

2. As we step out of our comfort zones to begin investing in the lives of others, let's take to heart the Great Commission. We are to go and tell, and as lost sheep come to know the Shepherd we will follow through with baptism and instruction. All that takes place within the church should be measured by how this will help us fulfil Christ's commands. We must constantly evaluate ourselves that we not be a "come and hear" congregation.

3. Most likely, these efforts will start slowly and deliberately. There are sure to be some in the church who are uncomfortable doing new things and stepping out of the traditional setting into a new world. Please keep in mind that this is quite normal, and in fact, is what any new missionary experiences as he leaves the comfort of his known world to travel to a distant or foreign place. A new language, new customs, and people who look and behave quite differently are to be expected. Learn to view this as an adventure with God. With time and effort you will come to feel more at home in the new setting.

4. Learn to pray specifically for the individuals that you are serving. Be sure to become very personal and approachable so that you really will know how to pray and minister to them. Be on the lookout for how God is attending to your prayers. It is likely that He will be shaping you to better reflect His image rather than making great changes in the lost sheep.

5. Use common sense and never damage your witness by placing yourself in a compromising situation or saying or doing something that is not Christ-worthy. This includes making promises regarding what you or others might do to help in a given situation. It is easy in the moment to share great plans and give much hope to those in need. This is fine, provided you and your church stand behind what you have committed to do. Extra care must be taken when individuals or teams go in to help. Be careful of male/female roles, and never give room for anyone to suspect inappropriate moral behavior. There must always be open accountability so the "right hand knows what the left is doing."

6. Make any arrangements necessary so that needs may be addressed as soon as possible. A need today may no longer exist several days hence, so beware of red tape and sluggish bureaucracy when it comes to funding and fielding volunteers. Chances are, once you've settled on a particular ministry the work will flow nicely from one need to another.

7. Needs and opportunities may be discovered in a variety of ways. A good starting place is by talking with members of your own congregation. They will likely come up with a short list of families and individuals who are quietly suffering. It isn't necessary to advertise to find lost or needy sheep. If all members will take an interest in their own neighborhoods they will discover more and more real needs. Most folks who have needs in deed seldom make those needs known beyond their immediate families and friends. Be observant and you will learn to separate a true need from a manufactured one that looks to take advantage of a benevolent system.

8. Tailor your ministries around the gifts and abilities of your people. Begin taking inventories of current and future members, and then work to plug them into a ministry where they will feel most natural and comfortable. A financial advisor may not feel confident putting a roof on a home, but he will really shine when asked to help lead a money management or financial workshop.