Shelby Baptist Association: Mission Continues with New Methods

April 29, 2020

Mission Makers

Brought to you by: Community Partner Sawyer Solutions www.sawyersolutionsllc.com

mission makers shelby baptist association freezer IMG 1859 — SBA volunteer Vicki Chapman prepares a food order for a family in need.

The Shelby Baptist Association (SBA) currently consists of 68 churches that have committed themselves to serving Christ together. In addition to encouraging and supporting one another, we seek to meet the needs of our communities and share the hope of the gospel of Jesus Christ. We strive to partner together to accomplish the Great Commission locally and globally.

mission makers shelby baptist association person at desk IMG 1860 — SBA Chaplain Shelia Persons speaks to ministry center clients before they receive their food.

During this time of COVID-19 pandemic, our mission has not changed, but our methods have had to change. Whether or not you are part of our association, if you are a child of God, then you must not give up on our mission to share hope in a world where many are feeling fear, anxiety, and hopelessness. It is easy to feel overwhelmed as we are told to be “socially distant.” Now more than ever, we must take care of each other and work to minister to those in need. Where should we begin? God will give us guidance if we seek Him first:

Pray for the Holy Spirit to provide protection and wisdom as you seek to be obedient to the Lord.
Pray for the Lord to guide you to the person or group of people that you need to serve.
Remember your main assignments (Mark 12:28-33; Matthew 28:19-20):
- Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength
- Love your neighbor as yourself
- Make disciples of all nations

Here is a list of low-risk/high-impact ministry ideas:

Make a phone or video call.
Send a letter, card, or care package through the mail.
Have groceries delivered.
Collect food and resources for ministries that help those in need (like our SBA Ministry Center).
Support local businesses by buying gift cards, calling in an order, or ordering online.
Create artistic, encouraging messages to send.
Host a “drive-in” event for worship or prayer.
Record a message, music, or video on a CD or DVD for someone that is not connected to the Internet.
Create a neighborhood library or pantry box to share books or food.
Sew face masks for at-risk individuals.
Help someone with yard work or a home repair.
Order flowers or a gift to be delivered with a personalized note.
Write an email or send an e-card.
Prayer walk through your neighborhood or community.
Create emergency care bags for the homeless.
Take or teach an online class to connect with others.
Offer to provide childcare for a healthcare worker, first responder, or another person that must continue to work.