Anyone who welcomes a little child like this on my behalf welcomes me, and anyone who welcomes me welcomes not only me, but my Father who sent me.

~Mark 9:37 NLT

I was running late and honestly a little agitated that no other volunteers were stepping up. The van ministry was one of“the most important missions of the church—reaching lost kids and families in Jesus’s name. But for weeks and months, I’d asked people to volunteer. No one new would commit, except on occasion. I wanted to ask, “Why won’t you inconvenience yourself?” but I didn’t.

My ride-along partner was waiting for me when I arrived at church, and we hopped in the van to begin the route. We picked up a handful of teens and kids and dropped them off at church, but my agitated state remained.

After Wednesday services, the kids loaded up, and we drove them home. One middle school kid shared what he had learned that night in youth group and then told us how thankful he was that we picked him up every Sunday and Wednesday. He told us that until he started going to church and gave his life to Jesus, the thought of his grandpa (his caregiver) dying scared him. This would leave a huge hole in his life, and the fear used to hold him hostage. But now he understood that his grandfather knew Jesus. If his grandfather died, they would be reunited in heaven. All his fear had evaporated.

My agitated heart melted. The minor inconvenience of driving the van meant this young man now knew the security of salvation and growth in Christ. His life wasn’t the same anymore because people took the time to pick him up each week and bring him to church.

That night I learned that our moments matter and that my rigid schedule left little room for God’s direction.

So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith.

~Galatians 6:10 ESV

Think of someone for whom you can inconvenience yourself.

Father, forgive me for any attitudes I have that get in the way of Your work. Help me lay aside my selfish desires and willingly do whatever You ask of me. Amen.

Genre: Non-fiction

Copyright 2026: Inconvenience Yourself: Cristy Bass Adams: All Rights Reserved.