Preacher David's Corner

Are You a Volunteer?

Life in the Coolest Corner of North Carolina.

In the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, where the air is crisp and the spirit of community runs deep, lies the Ashe Baptist Association—a family of 44 churches nestled in what many call the “coolest corner” of North Carolina. But beyond the beauty of the landscape and the charm of small-town life, something even more inspiring unfolds week after week: volunteers quietly and faithfully serving in ways that make an eternal difference. Are you a volunteer?

You may not wear a name tag or stand in the spotlight, but perhaps you're one of the many who sing in the choir on Sunday morning or offer a heartfelt solo that lifts someone’s spirit. Maybe you're the deacon who makes quiet visits to shut-ins, praying and bringing comfort with a warm handshake and a Bible verse. You could be the Sunday School teacher who patiently guides little ones through their first memory verses, or the Bible Study leader helping adults dig deep into God’s Word and grow in grace.

Perhaps your calling is disciple-making—pouring time and love into one-on-one relationships, teaching others how to walk more closely with Christ. Or maybe you find your joy in organizing Vacation Bible School, painting sets, preparing crafts, and leading children in songs that plant the seeds of faith.

Some volunteers are present behind the scenes, cooking hot meals for church gatherings, grieving families, or anyone in need of comfort food and kindness. Others roll up their sleeves and clean the church building—not for applause, but because they believe God deserves a clean house.

And then there are those who serve beyond the walls of the church. At Ashe Really Cares, volunteers sort clothes with care, stock shelves with donated food, and hand out boxes to the hungry with compassion and prayer. It’s hard work—but it’s holy work.

In revivals, in classrooms, in kitchens, and in quiet corners of the community, volunteers from the Ashe Baptist Association are living out their faith through service. These are ordinary people with extraordinary hearts—moved by love, fueled by faith, and grounded in a calling bigger than themselves.

So, are you a volunteer?

If so, thank you. You are the hands and feet of Jesus in Ashe County. And if not yet—maybe it’s time to pray, “Lord, how can I serve?” Because in this cool, mountain-lined corner of North Carolina, there's always a place for one more willing heart.

Your Servant, David