Ryan Wiebe • Disciple Maker
When Neighbors Serve: How a Shoulder Surgery Built Community
In this story from the KC Underground Network, Ryan Wiebe shares how a simple act of vulnerability became a moment of deep community connection.
“Not only did he serve us that day, but he serves us all the time…that’s how they live and gain life through serving others.” - Ryan Wiebe
Following shoulder surgery, Ryan and his family unexpectedly needed help. A neighbor met them at the driveway, helped him inside, and set up his recovery space. Later that night, the same neighbor brought McDonald’s for the whole family—and soon, meals were lined up for the next week. Other neighbors joined in, showing that serving—and being served—can open doors for relationship and trust.
Ryan reflects on the rhythm of gospel-centered community, known as BLESS (Begin in prayer, Listen, Eat, Serve, Story). He emphasizes that allowing others to serve is just as vital as serving oneself, noting that some neighbors naturally live out their faith through acts of care: “He serves other neighbors all the time…that’s how they live and gain life through serving others.”
This story illustrates that everyday acts of service—not programs or events—create the spaces where gospel-centered community flourishes. Through generosity and relational love, neighbors become spiritual family, and burdens are shared while joy is multiplied.
Are you walking with people, planting the gospel, or seeing new life emerge in your context? Your story can strengthen and inspire the wider KC Underground family.
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