One of the things I love most about Good Shepherd is that we’re not a church that only talks about faith—we’re a church that tries to live it. We know that if the love of Jesus is real, it shouldn’t stay contained inside a church for one hour a week. It should show up in the way we treat people, serve our neighbors, and step into the needs around us.
That’s why I’m so excited about Serve Expo.
Serve Expo is more than just some tables in the lobby or a chance to sign up for something new. It’s a reminder that every person has a role to play in what God is doing here.
Sometimes when we think about serving, we assume it’s only for “the really committed people” or “the outgoing people” or “the ones with lots of free time.” But that’s not how God works. God has always used everyday people—people with busy schedules, insecurities, and real life going on—to do extraordinary things.And the truth is, serving isn’t just about helping the church. Serving changes us.It stretches us. It connects us. It gives us purpose. It pulls us out of isolation and into community. It reminds us that we are part of something bigger than ourselves.
In fact, one of the biggest myths many of us believe is that we’ll finally feel fulfilled when life slows down or when we get everything figured out. But more often than not, what we’re really longing for isn’t ease—it’s meaning. And meaning is found when we start showing up.
So if you’re looking to be part of something meaningful, meet some great people, or simply find a place where you can make a difference, serving is a great next step. There are so many ways to jump in at Good Shepherd, and we’d love for you to be part of what God is doing here.
CHECK OUT ALL THE OPPORTUNITIES HERE
There are also some really meaningful things coming up at Good Shepherd that I hope you’ll be part of.This Sunday we’ll continue our Be Real series and talk about vulnerability with God. Because a lot of us have learned how to look “fine”… even when we’re not. And hiding has a way of wearing us out.
Tomorrow (Saturday) we have Soul Sisters, and it’s officially sold out. Which is so exciting! It’s going to be a great morning of connection, encouragement, and community for the women in our church. I’m so grateful for everyone who signed up and is making the choice to show up and build relationships. Please be praying for a meaningful and fun day, and that God would use it to deepen faith and strengthen relationships.
In worship this weekend at North Oak and in a few weeks at Gladstone, we’ll be celebrating our record-breaking Christmas Eve offering. We’ll be sharing the impact it’s going to make, and we’ll also have a representative from A Turning Point KC with us. It’s going to be a powerful reminder that generosity really does change lives.Finally, I want to thank you. As we’ve stepped into 2026, I’ve just felt incredibly grateful. December was a strong month. January has been a strong month. Both campuses have seen great momentum, and we’re continuing to grow online as well. It really feels like God is doing something special in and through our church right now.
So whether you’ve been here for years or you’re still figuring out if this is your place—I just want you to know: I’m glad you’re here. And I can’t wait to see what God does next.
Peace,
Matt
PS. If you missed the start of our Be Real series last Sunday, you can watch it below.
