Students serving at Mission Arlington on Martin Luther King Day 2015

The popular Coca-cola slogan was created in the 1930’s as a way of encouraging people to drink the well-liked beverage all-year round and not just in the warmer months. This successful trademark certainly sold more coke, but it has also been used through the years as a metaphor for politics, economics, entertainment, and multiple other venues.

On this national holiday, the slogan seems to be a good way to think about getting out to make a difference.  Here at Mission Arlington^® we accept as basic the biblical principle that “it is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35). It isn’t just that we believe it intellectually, but that we see it every day in practice, as we experience it ourselves.  We see the joy that people have as they get out of their comfort zones, and work hard to help someone else.  Instead of being spent, it fills people up.  There is just something beautiful and meaningful about doing something that provides authentic help to someone else, then not caring who gets the credit.  That sentiment describes this beautifully generous community perfectly.

The Mission Arlington^® family has the privilege of partnering again today with Toni Kincaid and her team at the Arlington Martin Luther King (MLK) Four Day Celebration Committee with their 2016 Day of Service. In honor of Dr. King., hundreds of volunteers from this community will partner with non-profits across the North Texas area to “make a difference.” We are pleased to be one of the partners for this community wide effort today. In addition, students from Dallas Baptist University will be here to serve, along with church groups, students from various local schools, individual families, and volunteers.  It is going to be a great day.

If you would like to come and help today, you don’t need an appointment.  We’re here until 7:00 p.m. this evening, and there is plenty for you to do.  Come join us, won’t you?  We pray it will be the “pause that refreshes,” but not just for you, but for all those who will receive the practical support your help provides.  Working together, perhaps someone else’s load will be a little lighter.

We are grateful for you.  We look forward to working with you today.