Phil Mills – Franktown, Colorado … Around A.D. 125, a Greek philosopher named Aristides wrote to the Roman emperor Hadrian to explain a strange new people called Christians. What he chose to report is striking.

He did not describe their doctrines or their meetings. He described what they did for the people around them: “If they see a stranger, they bring him under their roof… And if there is among them a man that is poor or needy… they fast two or three days that they may supply the needy with their necessary food.” (The Apology of Aristides, ch. 15.)

Centuries ago, even those outside the Christian faith recognized that the most persuasive testimony was not doctrine, but deeds. When Aristides described Christians to the emperor, he did not dwell on their beliefs, but on their radical hospitality and selfless generosity.

This powerful principle is not confined to history—I’ve witnessed its transformative impact in my own ministry.

Years ago, when I served as pastor in Hartford, Michigan, our little church was largely invisible in the community. We prayed earnestly that God would open hearts and create opportunities to connect. Then, in a moment that felt like a direct answer to prayer, a teacher from the local public school approached us. She asked if we could start after-school programs for kindergarten through second grade. Sensing God’s leading, we launched the “Character Club.”

The response was overwhelming! By the end of the first year, more than 150 children were on a waiting list to join. Our small, quiet church became known. Soon, parents were asking for Bible studies, and the church attendance grew from about 15 to 80+ on a Sabbath.

That experience taught me a lesson I have never forgotten: when churches fail to grow, it is often because the real needs of the community go unmet.

This is exactly the pattern Jesus left us. One of my favorite quotes from the book, The Ministry of Healing, says it this way: “Christ’s method alone will give true success in reaching the people. The Savior mingled with men as one who desired their good. He showed His sympathy for them, ministered to their needs, and won their confidence. Then He bade them, ‘Follow Me'” (The Ministry of Healing, p. 143).

Notice the order: meeting people’s needs comes first. Service opens hearts where arguments cannot. When a community experiences genuine care, they become receptive to the church’s message.

This is how service projects transform communities: one open door at a time, one stranger welcomed as a friend.

That’s why I invite you to the 2026 RMC Mission Summit. Discover practical ways to serve your neighborhood with the compassion and purpose of Jesus. No matter your background, gifts, or schedule, there is a place for you. Let’s make a tangible difference—serving, sharing, and transforming lives together.

Watch for more details coming soon at RMCSDA.org

—Phil Mills is the lead pastor at Franktown Seventh-day Adventist Church.