Wednesday, August 29, 2007

Encourage Others: Sean and Kelly Smith


Well, it's that time again! Wednesdays are the day I try to put the spotlight on someone I know who is blessing others with their gifts and service. It is the call of I Thessalonians 5:11.

The couple I am highlighting today, Sean and Kelly Smith, is an absolute joy to witness in their work for the Lord. They always do service with a loving attitude, and I've never once seen it become about them. In fact, much of what they do has succeeded because of God's blessing on their work, and this success has never produced visible pride or conceit in either of them. It just produces more fruit and service from their thankful hearts. They represent well the faithful servant in Matthew 25: 21,
"His master replied, 'Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been
faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things."

Sean and Kelly came to the marriage ministry, Thrive, last year and dove in with activities, greeting and participating in small group. Right away, they offered their home for dinners and came early with their two boys to help pass out handouts and nametags. Their commitment was contagious, and I believe much of the passion that filled their small group last year was a result of their spirit and enthusiasm. Their example to so many reminds me of Hebrews 12:1,
"Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of wintesses, let us
throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let
us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes
on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him
endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the
throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men,
so that you will not grow weary and lose heart."

At church, Sean and Kelly are always seen greeting with a smile and a warm welcome on Sunday mornings. In addition, they are leaders in the Bridge ministry. This is a perfect service for them, for God has clearly gifted them in reaching out to those who need to see a friendly face and a heart that is concerned they don't "get lost" in the crowd. Kelly handwrites cards to welcome people to our church, and she makes sure that new attendees get all the information about getting plugged into Bible studies and activities at Compass Bible Church.

This gift has spilled over into their leadership in the Welcome Ministry for Thrive this upcoming year. This summer has been filled with hundreds of e-mails and calls from Sean and Kelly, all making sure they let potential Thrive attendees feel welcome, know information and get plugged in if they decide to join the group. I cannot stress enough how God has blessed the fruit of their labor. The Thrive ministry could double in size due to the amount of people they have been able to reach through their hard work and joyful service. Think of all the people who can find Biblical wisdom about marriage, friendships and their relationships with God, all because Sean and Kelly care to reach them for the Kingdom of Heaven. They have blessed my husband and me with their organization and commitment to their ministry. We never have to remind them of anything. They are always one step ahead of us--even my very organized husband!

What impresses me most about Sean and Kelly is that their "real selves" are always visible. They are the first to expose a weakness in themselves that might need prayer, they always are effusive in thanking others for any service or ministry, and they take any compliment and point it to God immediately.

I want Sean and Kelly to know that they are a tremendous witness to everyone around them, creating disciples in Christ through the very real labor they continuously do for so many ministries at church. I know they love God and give Him all the glory. Let us consider their example to us and always give God the credit!
"Then I heard every creature in heaven and on earth and under the earth and on
the sea, and all that is in them, singing: 'To him who sits on the throne
and to the Lamb be praise and honor and glory and power, for ever and ever!'" Revelation 5:13

2 comments:

Ryan Hawley said...

Way to go, Sean and Kelly! Keep up the good work!

Yvonne F. said...

I am taking currently Kelly through Partners and she is EVERYTHING you affirmed her for. You said it so well Chiara.