We’re becoming a nation of consumers.  Our expectations of what others are supposed to do for us can creep up until we believe we are “entitled” to certain benefits.  It’s true in the retail world and I think we all know it is true in the church.  I’ve been informed in the past month of two families that left our church because we failed to meet their expectations.  I am sad about that because I really hate to disappoint people.  I am sad about that because neither one of them ever came to talk to me about it.  I am sad about it for them because it is possible they have been infected with the consumer virus.  I really hope they are happy where they land and that their expectations are more fully met.  One of the dilemmas we face in the American Church is how to live in this consumer culture without becoming a part of its insidious grip.  I’m not suggesting that a person should never change churches.  Sometimes the only way to get on in life is to make the necessary changes, including a church.  However, sometimes we ought to stay put, roll up our sleeves and serve.  Serving in proper ways in the context of a church family has a number of benefits.  1) Serving helps us make connections.  2) Serving helps us grow in grace and in the knowledge of the Lord and His Word.  3) Serving helps us become servants.  4) Serving helps us with commitment, (which is a vanishing character quality today).  5) Serving is a practical way to make life less about “me.”  6) Serving helps us appreciate the diversity within the Body of Christ.  7) Serving manifests the life of the Spirit.  8) Serving brings glory to God.  9) Serving blesses other people.  10) Serving has eternal rewards.  I could go on and on but you get the point.  Of course, much of our service for Christ takes place Monday through Saturday but there are places to serve and the need for servants on Sunday too.  This coming Sunday is “Servant Sunday” and we’ll be surveying you regarding your interest in service opportunities for the year ahead.  We’ll be studying words of wisdom to the Corinthian church.  My prayer is that as a church family we’ll kick the consumer mentality to the curb, say no to many of the distractions this culture is throwing at us, roll up our sleeves and get to work…to serve…yes, to serve.