Two weeks ago, a friend and I went to the yearly Art of Faith Festival in Bornem and somehow, we got to experience it in two completely different ways.
On Friday, we were there as volunteers. On Saturday, we came back as festivalgoers. And honestly? It felt like the best of both worlds.
Friday: Serving Behind the Scenes
Volunteering at a festival is a very different experience from simply attending it. You see the setup, the teamwork, the little moments most people never notice. It’s less about what you get and more about what you can give.
There’s something deeply meaningful about serving in a place where people gather to worship, create, and encounter God. Even in simple tasks, I was reminded that service itself can be worship.
Sometimes we think ministry only happens on a stage or behind a microphone. But that Friday reminded me that faith is also lived out in carrying boxes, helping strangers, and showing up with a willing heart.
As Jesus said, “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant” (Mark 10:43).
Saturday: Receiving the Gift
Coming back on Saturday felt completely different. This time, there was no task list and no responsibility. We were just there to enjoy, to listen, to worship, to be present (ps: you’ll never guess who we met!).
And because we had served first, I appreciated it more. I noticed the details. I valued the atmosphere. I felt grateful for every person who made the day possible because just one day earlier, I had been one of them. Even seeing familiar faces from the day before, gave us a sense of belonging.
But what moved me most was seeing so many young people completely and shamelessly in love with God. Young people worshipping freely, jumping around, laughing, serving wholeheartedly and choosing Jesus boldly. It was like a declaration of love from a generation people are so scared might have lost their way.
People from different cultures, races, backgrounds, and stories all united by one name: Jesus.
There was so much beauty in that atmosphere, it reminded me of what the Kingdom of God looks like: diverse, united, joyful, and centered on Him.
Another thing I really loved about the festival was this: it was fun.
Sometimes the world acts as if following Jesus means missing out, as if faith is restrictive, boring, or less exciting than what culture has to offer. But weekends like this remind me that that simply isn’t true.
As Christians, we don’t need to conform to the patterns of this world to experience joy, connection, celebration, and freedom. We can dance, laugh, create, sing, and celebrate without compromising our values. We can have fun while still honoring God, and just how beautiful is it while doing it with your friends and loved ones?
This weekend made me think of Martha and Mary in Luke 10:38-42. Martha was busy serving. Mary was sitting at Jesus’ feet. Often we compare them, as if one is right and the other is wrong. But maybe the lesson is not choosing one over the other but rather learning when each is needed.
There is a time to serve, there is a time to sit.
A time to pour out and a time to be filled up.
I’m grateful for being a part of a generation that is rising up unashamed of the gospel. And I pray that the Lord teaches us to live differently, to reflect fully, and to find our deepest joy in Him.
Stay Blessed x
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