Jamaica 2024- Let's Work Together
“Jamaica 2024- Let’s Work Together”
--from May 26th --
each devotion is written by a member of the team going to Jamaica in October
--from May 26th --
each devotion is written by a member of the team going to Jamaica in October
Day 1
(written by: Sarah Berger)
Read: Mark 10:42-45, Micah 6:6-8, 1 Corinthians 15:58, John 13:1-17
58 times in the Bible, we see phrases that call for serving and love of others. But, what exactly is service? Mowing a lawn? Helping an elderly neighbor? Serving a meal in the community? Building a house? Absolutely! These helping actions can definitely be defined as service. HOWEVER, serving others is so much more than our actions. It also involves our attitudes toward the service and those we serve with. Service should be approached with respect and honor of those we serve. Recently I heard the term “Upside Down Kingdom” used to describe the Kingdom of God. This concept focuses on the difference of the selfish standards that have developed in our world compared to the teachings of Jesus. Jesus, who was the most perfect person. Jesus, who in John 13, humbled himself and placed himself into the servant role by washing the feet of his disciples and then instructed them to follow his example.
When we put ourselves in the position of being a helper and carrying out the work the Lord has called us to do, it is vitally important that we also humble ourselves. We were created to walk humbly with God and in doing so, He will lead us right where we need to be. We are called as followers of Jesus to not only serve, but to serve with joy. Sometimes, these opportunities may be less than desirable. However, these are the situations where we can really let God’s love shine through us. Even though it may seem like a small task at the time, nothing is insignificant when you are serving God.
How will you respond when God presents you with an opportunity to step into that helper role?
Was there a time when a small task became a more significant moment that led to God moving in a bigger way?
How can this be part of your prayer today?
Read: Mark 10:42-45, Micah 6:6-8, 1 Corinthians 15:58, John 13:1-17
58 times in the Bible, we see phrases that call for serving and love of others. But, what exactly is service? Mowing a lawn? Helping an elderly neighbor? Serving a meal in the community? Building a house? Absolutely! These helping actions can definitely be defined as service. HOWEVER, serving others is so much more than our actions. It also involves our attitudes toward the service and those we serve with. Service should be approached with respect and honor of those we serve. Recently I heard the term “Upside Down Kingdom” used to describe the Kingdom of God. This concept focuses on the difference of the selfish standards that have developed in our world compared to the teachings of Jesus. Jesus, who was the most perfect person. Jesus, who in John 13, humbled himself and placed himself into the servant role by washing the feet of his disciples and then instructed them to follow his example.
When we put ourselves in the position of being a helper and carrying out the work the Lord has called us to do, it is vitally important that we also humble ourselves. We were created to walk humbly with God and in doing so, He will lead us right where we need to be. We are called as followers of Jesus to not only serve, but to serve with joy. Sometimes, these opportunities may be less than desirable. However, these are the situations where we can really let God’s love shine through us. Even though it may seem like a small task at the time, nothing is insignificant when you are serving God.
How will you respond when God presents you with an opportunity to step into that helper role?
Was there a time when a small task became a more significant moment that led to God moving in a bigger way?
How can this be part of your prayer today?
Day 2
(written by; Mandy Miller)
Read Phillippians 3:12-16 and Romans 8:28
Traveling has always been a passion of mine. I love to see new places, and I’m always in awe
when I think about our God creating such a beautiful world. I love to listen to the ocean, see the
beautiful mountains, and everything in between. But there is one place that I have been blessed
to visit multiple times now, and that is the island of Jamaica.
The first time I was there was as a young girl. My family walked to a local area where we met a
9 year old boy who spent his days playing the drums trying to get tourists to give him tips so he
could take money home to his mom and siblings. I kept in contact with this young man for a few
years, and he always worked hard to take care of his family because he was the “man” of the
house.
I also visited the island three times as an adult, and what I didn’t realize is that God was
preparing my heart for something so much bigger. I loved seeing all of the new places, but there
was just something different about Jamaica. The people, the scenery, everything just made me
feel a little different than the rest.
When the church started talking about a mission trip last year and I heard that there were teens
going, I instantly knew I wanted to go. Working with the teenagers, I knew that being on a
mission trip would give me the opportunity to minister beside them, and there is just something
special about that time together. At the time I didn’t know the location of the trip, but God knew.
When I found out we were going to Jamaica, my first thought was “I have been there and they
have served me, now this is my chance to go and serve them.”
There are times in life that you just never know what God is preparing your heart and mind for.
But I do know that when I was in Jamaica last year and saw the non-tourist part of the Island, I
loved the island and its people more than ever. A lot of times as christians we don’t see the
whole picture. When we are talking to our neighbors outside, sometimes we don’t realize that
soon after, they are going to need someone to be the hands and feet of Jesus. Our mission field
doesn’t have to be far away, but we have to have a willing heart. Sometimes we are called far
away, and sometimes we are called to those right around us, and most importantly we are
called to those who live in our own homes.
● How have you seen God move in a way that you maybe didn’t understand at the time
what He was up to, but eventually you had that moment where it all started to just make
sense?
● What might God be calling you to do right now?
● How does this become part of your prayer today?
Read Phillippians 3:12-16 and Romans 8:28
Traveling has always been a passion of mine. I love to see new places, and I’m always in awe
when I think about our God creating such a beautiful world. I love to listen to the ocean, see the
beautiful mountains, and everything in between. But there is one place that I have been blessed
to visit multiple times now, and that is the island of Jamaica.
The first time I was there was as a young girl. My family walked to a local area where we met a
9 year old boy who spent his days playing the drums trying to get tourists to give him tips so he
could take money home to his mom and siblings. I kept in contact with this young man for a few
years, and he always worked hard to take care of his family because he was the “man” of the
house.
I also visited the island three times as an adult, and what I didn’t realize is that God was
preparing my heart for something so much bigger. I loved seeing all of the new places, but there
was just something different about Jamaica. The people, the scenery, everything just made me
feel a little different than the rest.
When the church started talking about a mission trip last year and I heard that there were teens
going, I instantly knew I wanted to go. Working with the teenagers, I knew that being on a
mission trip would give me the opportunity to minister beside them, and there is just something
special about that time together. At the time I didn’t know the location of the trip, but God knew.
When I found out we were going to Jamaica, my first thought was “I have been there and they
have served me, now this is my chance to go and serve them.”
There are times in life that you just never know what God is preparing your heart and mind for.
But I do know that when I was in Jamaica last year and saw the non-tourist part of the Island, I
loved the island and its people more than ever. A lot of times as christians we don’t see the
whole picture. When we are talking to our neighbors outside, sometimes we don’t realize that
soon after, they are going to need someone to be the hands and feet of Jesus. Our mission field
doesn’t have to be far away, but we have to have a willing heart. Sometimes we are called far
away, and sometimes we are called to those right around us, and most importantly we are
called to those who live in our own homes.
● How have you seen God move in a way that you maybe didn’t understand at the time
what He was up to, but eventually you had that moment where it all started to just make
sense?
● What might God be calling you to do right now?
● How does this become part of your prayer today?
Day 3
(written by: Jody Petroy)
Read Matthew 14:6-2
1 Peter 5:8-10
The feeding of the 5000 in Matthew 14 is a well-known & significant story, considering it is the only miracle recorded in all four Gospels. However, what intrigued me about the story is what took place right before- the murder of Jesus' beloved cousin and friend, John the Baptist. When Jesus was told of this, he sought solitude, but He was followed by the masses. He could have sent them away, ignored them, and most of us would say He was justified in such a response.
Jesus, however, did the exact opposite. The Bible tells us He had compassion, healed their sick, and then fed every last one of them! Jesus served while suffering.
This reminds me of a practice often taught to those of us in recovery- when I am struggling, stressed out, overwhelmed, or even in mourning, one of the greatest things I can do to help myself, is to go find someone else I can help. Does this fix my problem? No, but it changes my perspective of my problems and the burdens of life don't feel so heavy. So how does this play into the Mission trip? I, myself and my family, along with many other people at Keystone Church right now are weary and or feel under attack. We are all going through something, whether it is physical, emotional, spiritual, or financial. I truly believe that the preparations, fund raising, prayers, and ultimately the mission trip itself to go and serve the people of Jamaica, is exactly what Jesus would want us to do. He will use the people of Keystone and our struggles to make something beautiful unfold before our very eyes.
How do you typically respond to trials/suffering?
Have you ever ministered to another while in a time of suffering? What did that look like and did you, yourself, benefit from such service?
How does this become part of your prayer today?
Read Matthew 14:6-2
1 Peter 5:8-10
The feeding of the 5000 in Matthew 14 is a well-known & significant story, considering it is the only miracle recorded in all four Gospels. However, what intrigued me about the story is what took place right before- the murder of Jesus' beloved cousin and friend, John the Baptist. When Jesus was told of this, he sought solitude, but He was followed by the masses. He could have sent them away, ignored them, and most of us would say He was justified in such a response.
Jesus, however, did the exact opposite. The Bible tells us He had compassion, healed their sick, and then fed every last one of them! Jesus served while suffering.
This reminds me of a practice often taught to those of us in recovery- when I am struggling, stressed out, overwhelmed, or even in mourning, one of the greatest things I can do to help myself, is to go find someone else I can help. Does this fix my problem? No, but it changes my perspective of my problems and the burdens of life don't feel so heavy. So how does this play into the Mission trip? I, myself and my family, along with many other people at Keystone Church right now are weary and or feel under attack. We are all going through something, whether it is physical, emotional, spiritual, or financial. I truly believe that the preparations, fund raising, prayers, and ultimately the mission trip itself to go and serve the people of Jamaica, is exactly what Jesus would want us to do. He will use the people of Keystone and our struggles to make something beautiful unfold before our very eyes.
How do you typically respond to trials/suffering?
Have you ever ministered to another while in a time of suffering? What did that look like and did you, yourself, benefit from such service?
How does this become part of your prayer today?
Day 4
(written by: Liz Keslar)
Read 1 John 4:7-12, 1 Corinthians 13:1-13, Romans 12:1-21
In the heart of every mission trip beats the rhythm of God’s love. It is this love that propels us
forward, inspires us to serve and empowers us to make a difference in the lives of others. As I
began this journey before my first mission trip – I focused on the profound truth that we are
called to be vessels of God’s love, showing it in both word and deed.
God’s love is not merely a concept to be discussed or a feeling to be experienced; it is a tangible
force that compels us to action. In the mission field, we have the privilege of demonstrating this
love through practical acts of service, compassionate listening, and empathetic understanding.
Whether we are building homes, teaching school lessons, or simply offering a comforting
embrace, every action becomes a testament to the boundless love of our Heavenly Father.
One of the most powerful ways we can show God’s love, whether on a mission trip abroad or
on our own doorsteps, is by extending unconditional love to all we encounter. Regardless of
background status, or circumstance, every individual is a beloved child of God, worth of dignity,
respect, and compassion. By embracing others with open arms and welcoming them into our
heart, we mirror the radical inclusivity of Christ’s love.
In the midst of our busy schedules and busting activities, it is easy to overlook the simple yet
profound act of being present with others. While I was in Jamaica, I had the opportunity to slow
down, listen attentively, and offer my undivided presence to those we met. This summer,
remember, whether we are sharing a meal, engaging in conversation, or offering a shoulder to
lean on, our presence becomes a reflection of God’s abiding love and care.
Whether home or abroad – what are ways you can show God’s love to others this week?
Will you pray that you are granted eyes that see the needs of others, a heart that overflows
with compassion and hands that will be ready to serve?
Read 1 John 4:7-12, 1 Corinthians 13:1-13, Romans 12:1-21
In the heart of every mission trip beats the rhythm of God’s love. It is this love that propels us
forward, inspires us to serve and empowers us to make a difference in the lives of others. As I
began this journey before my first mission trip – I focused on the profound truth that we are
called to be vessels of God’s love, showing it in both word and deed.
God’s love is not merely a concept to be discussed or a feeling to be experienced; it is a tangible
force that compels us to action. In the mission field, we have the privilege of demonstrating this
love through practical acts of service, compassionate listening, and empathetic understanding.
Whether we are building homes, teaching school lessons, or simply offering a comforting
embrace, every action becomes a testament to the boundless love of our Heavenly Father.
One of the most powerful ways we can show God’s love, whether on a mission trip abroad or
on our own doorsteps, is by extending unconditional love to all we encounter. Regardless of
background status, or circumstance, every individual is a beloved child of God, worth of dignity,
respect, and compassion. By embracing others with open arms and welcoming them into our
heart, we mirror the radical inclusivity of Christ’s love.
In the midst of our busy schedules and busting activities, it is easy to overlook the simple yet
profound act of being present with others. While I was in Jamaica, I had the opportunity to slow
down, listen attentively, and offer my undivided presence to those we met. This summer,
remember, whether we are sharing a meal, engaging in conversation, or offering a shoulder to
lean on, our presence becomes a reflection of God’s abiding love and care.
Whether home or abroad – what are ways you can show God’s love to others this week?
Will you pray that you are granted eyes that see the needs of others, a heart that overflows
with compassion and hands that will be ready to serve?
Day 5
(written by Pat Neuschwanger)
Read Philippians 3:12-16
The apostle Paul wrote this letter to the church at Philippi from prison. Interestingly, the message is far from one of despair and suffering. In fact, it is quite positive, indicating that Paul was strong in his faith.
It has taken me a really long time, but I’m getting more and more comfortable with studying scripture. The reason for the increase in comfort is that I’m learning that the people about which scripture is written are as imperfect (a more apt term might be “screwed up…”) as I am. Making more of a habit of learning about the people, their situations, personalities, communities, and the difficulties that they were facing in their lives has allowed me to identify more and more with them. And in doing so, with God’s Word, and His love for me. That true love (from the Creator of the universe – for me) is something that I’ve never truly realized was for me.
It is possible that my “less than perfect” past was part (maybe a majority) of the reason that I never realized or appreciated that God could truly love me. Regardless of the specific cause, that was my mindset. So, verse 13 is particularly empowering to me, and maybe to you as well. Paul gives us permission to “forget the past!”. We don’t have to be constrained by past failures. Our past doesn’t have to define our future. We have the freedom to stop comparing ourselves to others and focus on the truth that the Creator of the universe loves us individually and unconditionally.
Let’s pause here for a minute and think about the word “unconditionally”. The definition is “without conditions or limits”. So, God loves us ‘without conditions or limits’.
This brings me back to verse 12 and I’m reminded that “…I press on to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me His own.” I keep going (toward the goal – of Christlikeness) because Jesus values and loves me. And He showed it by giving His life (in my place) on the cross.
So I guess I can boil it down to this: The above facts have served to inspire me to keep going, to keep striving “toward the goal” (goal = Christlikeness in the here and now – from MacArthur Study Bible notes from Phil 3:14) “for the prize” (prize = Christlikeness in heaven – same reference). In pressing toward this goal and prize, we all have a message to share with the world (God’s love).
Consider what limitations you may have put on yourself because you think you’re not good enough, smart enough, or not important enough.
Give thought to what God can accomplish in your life the next time you discuss the topic of missions.
After reading and considering this, do you now have a somewhat different view of the role you could play in missions? If so, please seek out someone in the church and talk about this.
Read Philippians 3:12-16
The apostle Paul wrote this letter to the church at Philippi from prison. Interestingly, the message is far from one of despair and suffering. In fact, it is quite positive, indicating that Paul was strong in his faith.
It has taken me a really long time, but I’m getting more and more comfortable with studying scripture. The reason for the increase in comfort is that I’m learning that the people about which scripture is written are as imperfect (a more apt term might be “screwed up…”) as I am. Making more of a habit of learning about the people, their situations, personalities, communities, and the difficulties that they were facing in their lives has allowed me to identify more and more with them. And in doing so, with God’s Word, and His love for me. That true love (from the Creator of the universe – for me) is something that I’ve never truly realized was for me.
It is possible that my “less than perfect” past was part (maybe a majority) of the reason that I never realized or appreciated that God could truly love me. Regardless of the specific cause, that was my mindset. So, verse 13 is particularly empowering to me, and maybe to you as well. Paul gives us permission to “forget the past!”. We don’t have to be constrained by past failures. Our past doesn’t have to define our future. We have the freedom to stop comparing ourselves to others and focus on the truth that the Creator of the universe loves us individually and unconditionally.
Let’s pause here for a minute and think about the word “unconditionally”. The definition is “without conditions or limits”. So, God loves us ‘without conditions or limits’.
This brings me back to verse 12 and I’m reminded that “…I press on to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me His own.” I keep going (toward the goal – of Christlikeness) because Jesus values and loves me. And He showed it by giving His life (in my place) on the cross.
So I guess I can boil it down to this: The above facts have served to inspire me to keep going, to keep striving “toward the goal” (goal = Christlikeness in the here and now – from MacArthur Study Bible notes from Phil 3:14) “for the prize” (prize = Christlikeness in heaven – same reference). In pressing toward this goal and prize, we all have a message to share with the world (God’s love).
Consider what limitations you may have put on yourself because you think you’re not good enough, smart enough, or not important enough.
Give thought to what God can accomplish in your life the next time you discuss the topic of missions.
After reading and considering this, do you now have a somewhat different view of the role you could play in missions? If so, please seek out someone in the church and talk about this.
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1 Comment
Thanks to all who prepared devotions this week! At this point in the week, I'm especially moved by Jody's msg. I did not realize that Jesus was suffering at that time that He fed the 5000. What an encouraging message and great context! It is also great inspiration for the whole church as we all prepare in various ways to serve and go and support the mission trip! Thank you!