Need an activity for a small-group fun night, but putt-putt golf is getting old? Why not have a service scavenger hunt? Group members will go on a hunt to find ways to serve and encourage one another. Here’s what you’ll do:

At the beginning of the night, have members each write the following information on an index card: favorite way to relax, favorite candy or treat, things that make the person feel loved, favorite music, favorite hobby, and so on. After the cards are filled out, put them in a hat, and have each member pick one. Then have members get in teams of two.

The teams will be sent on their way to hunt together for ways to serve, bless, or encourage the people whose cards they got. (Make sure team members don't have one another's cards.) For example, if a member's favorite way to relax is in a bubble bath, buy some bath salts. If the favorite candy listed is Snickers, buy a bar. You may want to set a budget limit at the beginning of the evening—let members know they should keep the costs for their service within a range.

But there are other ways to serve besides the material. If a member prizes his or her truck greatly, sneak to that person’s house and give it a wash. If a member loves golf, give an IOU or a gift certificate for a round together.

Gather back together after about an hour and a half to give your gifts of service and encouragement to one another.

Afterward, reflect as a group:

• Read 1 Thessalonians 5:11. How do you think we’re doing as a small group in encouraging one another?

• How did it feel to be served tonight? How did it feel to serve others?

• What can we practically do to improve our loving and serving one another?