making the time

By: Jacob Mayer, P.E., Settje Agri-Services & Engineering, Inc.

Katie and I welcomed our third child, Williem Marshall, on January 22nd. Our hearts are full, but so is our to-do list. There never seems to be enough hours in the day to get everything done. Know the feeling? I suspect many of you are nodding in agreement. Time is our most precious resource and it is important to spend it wisely. Speaking of spending, the Bible calls us to tithe (give ten percent). We usually think about this in terms of our finances, but what about our time?

“Be careful, then, how you live – not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is” (Ephesians 5:15-17). God calls us to make the most of our time. I believe He wants us to spend time with Him and dedicate a portion of our days to serve others. How do we live that out?

I have tried to focus my volunteer efforts on three areas: youth, agriculture, and food. I am currently the Vice Chairman of Nebraska Cattlemen’s Natural Resources & Environment Committee. This opportunity has given me a chance to use my training as an Agricultural Engineer and my professional experiences to serve the members of NC. I am an usher at our church, a member of the Ag Advisory Board at Northeast Community College, and the Vice President of our local FFA alumni chapter. Katie and I also help out with her school’s backpack program, which prepares meals and sends them home to make sure kids have enough to eat over the weekend.

I do not share these things to boast or because I need a pat on the back. Rather, I hope to inspire you. If someone like me can have a positive impact, then I know you can too. Community service is extremely fulfilling and I want you feel the reward of making a difference by helping others. Many of you are already involved. Thank you. How about your employees or co-workers? Perhaps there are opportunities in your business to create or enhance a service component. That might manifest itself in an adopt a highway or roadside clean up, starting or participating in a beef in school event, or becoming a pen pal for an ag in the classroom program.

I have also found that a commitment to others is generational. My passion for service was fostered at a young age by my parents. My mom led a small youth group through church, helped with Vacation Bible School, and was always saving change for some mission project. My dad was active in the Academy of Veterinary Consultants (AVC) and served a term as the organization’s president. It was through that group that I became acquainted with Dr. Wade and the PAC team. I pray that my children will also develop a heart for serving others.

The rural communities we live and work in depend on generous donations of time. Volunteer fire departments, church committees, school boards, youth sports teams, and hundreds of other organizations could not exist without the selfless dedication of volunteers. I do not know your circumstances or interests, but I am confident that there are endless ways you can make a difference by being generous with your time. God has given each of us our own unique skill sets. How can you use your gifts to help others in 2020 and beyond?

I can’t wait to find out. Until next time, God Bless.