Written by Tory Shephard, Relate Contributing Writer

Ralph Waldo Emerson once said, “It is one of the most beautiful compensations of this life that no man can sincerely try to help another without helping himself.”

Volunteering not only helps and benefits one’s community but, in a way, it benefits the volunteers themselves. For instance, volunteering makes a person feel worthy, as if they’ve accomplished something because they made someone else’s life better or they made a change in their community somehow. Volunteering also shows a person is generous, compassionate and good-hearted because they are kind enough to give up a few hours of their time and put it into their community.

However, instead of considering volunteering as something you can do for people who are not as fortunate as yourself, begin to think of it as an exchange. Remember that most people find themselves in need at some point in their lives. So today you may be the person with the ability to help, but tomorrow you may be the recipient of someone else’s volunteer effort.

In Galatians 5:13 it says, “You, my brothers, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the sinful nature; rather, serve one another in love.” Not only does God command us to give back to our communities, but it makes your city a more comforting and pleasing place to live in.

But your hesitations are coming through loud and clear. “Well, umm, ahh, you know, the new episodes of One Tree Hill is on tonight, and tomorrow I have to work, and school is so hectic, and money is tight – I just can’t get involved.” What part of changing someone’s life for the better doesn’t intrigue you? Plenty of stats prove that volunteering makes the volunteer a more happy and contented individual. Yet we continue to push caring aside for our favorite TV shows, movie dates and busy lives.

So, a proposition will be made. Do you dare to care? Do you dare to love your neighbor more than yourself? Do you dare to take two hours once a week to serve at a local food kitchen, send a heartfelt card or pick up some extra chores around the house? You won’t regret it.

Tags: Bible verses, care, community, volunteering, volunteers