The Surprising Way to Find Your Purpose | Matthew 9:35–38

Main message: Jesus invites every follower to stop being a spectator and join the work of the harvest — serving others is both a calling and a formative, mutual work that changes lives.

Key points:

• Jesus sees people as "harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd" and calls his followers to participate in meeting those needs.
• Serving is practical and relational — getting your "jersey dirty" (tutoring, neighborhood ministry, cleanup, etc.) connects you with people and produces real impact.
• Participation shapes the server as much as the served: proximity builds relationships, spiritual growth, and resilience for doing hard things.
• The church is a collective "we" — all who serve share in stories of life change (speakers note Crossroads' baptisms as communal fruit).
• Jesus tells followers to pray for and become laborers in the plentiful harvest; go where the need is and be involved.

Scriptures mentioned: Matthew 9:36-38, Luke 10:17-20