Tim Ainley, CEO of Forward Edge, recently shared an inspiring message at a graduation commencement ceremony that is a timely and impactful message for us all. But, especially for recent graduates, young adults, and teens, these words could be the guiding principles you need as you step into a world with a million different possibilities:
Read Part 1: Remember Whose You Are
Ok, the second thing I wish someone would have told me is this:Â
Let’s go back to Ephesians 2:10, which says: We are God’s handiwork (poiema), created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.Â
God made us to do good works…to bestow charity upon others…to give…to love…to serve.Â
We follow Jesus’ example, who came not to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.Â
In fact, do you remember the last lesson he taught the disciples in the upper room before going to the cross? He washed their feet and told them just as he has served them, they now ought to go and serve one another.Â
That’s the purpose you were made for, graduates: to serve others.Â
Let me ask any of you who have served on a mission trip…do you feel like even though you went to give of yourselves, you actually got more out of the experience than you gave?Â
Yes! That’s the common theme we hear among people who serve with Forward Edge on mission trips. Because it’s how God designed us!Â
And here’s what’s fascinating: science confirms this.Â
Did you know that there is a positive biological response to altruism? That serving others, and giving to others, is actually good for your mental health? Â
You see, when you give to someone else or serve them, with no motive behind it, no strings attached, your brain releases three chemicals: oxytocin, serotonin, and dopamine. Â
Doctors call these three chemicals the happiness trifecta because when your brain releases them, it brightens your mood. It increases your joy.Â
You see, God designed us to serve others, and He biologically wired our bodies to flourish when we do so.Â
You were made to serve.Â
Forward Edge International has sent over 1,500 mission teams over the past three decades. During that time, we’ve gathered a few tips common among those who’ve successfully raised funds for their trip. Fundraising not only helps support your trip financially, it also provides a way for your friends and family
There is a word—or at least a series of decisions—that determine to a very great extent the story of our lives. In fact, if we fail to use this word and make those decisions, we will never experience the fullness of God’s plans for us. The word is “Yes.” One
In the midst of Holy Week, we find ourselves in a unique season of self-isolation and deprivation that coincides with the religious tradition of Lent observed by many Christians. Lent is a time of preparation – a period of giving up or sacrificing something in preparation for something better that
One of Forward Edge’s most dearly held values is the importance of relationships. And what better way has God given us to bond with others than over a table of good food. Culture is often shared through food. Sharing meals isn’t just about filling our stomachs—it’s about connection over stories,
5 yrs. old
Entered the Program: November 2022
Lorvencia lives with her parents, two big brothers and her baby sister in a rented house with electricity and running water. They also have an indoor bathroom and kitchen. Lorvenica’s mother stays home to care for the children and her father is a farmer.
