In Galatians 5:13, the Apostle Paul urges us to serve one another humbly in love. Those acquainted with David Merritt know that he lives by that command.

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David’s family – two adult daughters Olivia and Hannah, and his wife of almost 20 years, Dana, and their daughter Morgan. His work – data and analytics at the Federal Reserve Bank, where he met Dana on the Y2K project (remember that?) Next June is a milestone – 35 years at the bank. “I’ll catch up to my dad then – he worked for Carrier Air Conditioning for 35 years.”

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The bank isn’t the only “job” in David’s life. He’s given so much time, energy, and knowledge to the City of Farmers Branch: Parks & Recreation Board, a city bond committee, and almost 16 years on the Planning and Zoning Commission. “I’d always thought that I might run for Council,” so in 2015 he threw his hat in the ring, and “gave it a good effort, but lost.” Six years later, he campaigned again – winning a seat on the Farmers Branch City Council in May 2021.

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But David’s “service heart” lies with the church’s Appalachia Service Project. “Since 1994, I’ve gone over 30 times on mission trips. It’s a huge part of who I am for sure.” He lights up describing the work: “part handyman, part facilitator. It’s about individual service, working with young people to show them how to give back to those in different situations than their own.” The best part: “having fun, making relationships, and serving our purpose. How can it be any better?”

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David’s acts of service have reached beyond those he assists. Daughter Morgan just received the Hidden Heroes award from Metrocrest Services. The press release reports that she “represents the next generation of philanthropists.” Her inspiration and role model? “My Dad is one of the most selfless people I know,” shares Morgan. “He does not think twice about helping others. I strive to be more like him every day.” (from Metrocrest Services Hidden Heroes press release)

 

And David’s perspective on serving others? “It’s what we were meant to do.”