Serving

"Jesus took a towel and a basin and redefined greatness."
-Richard Foster, "Celebration of Discipline"

Jesus taught those that were following him that the secret to becoming great is to become the servant of all (Mark 10:43-45).  As Jesus was in the habit of doing, His call on our lives does not mirror mainstream thinking.

In John 13 we see how Jesus demonstrated the need to serve one another.  After a meal with those following him, he wrapped a towel around his waist, and went about washing their feet.  He then challenged those who were to follow him, to go and do likewise.  The point was, life is not about status, standing or reputation, life will make more sense when we learn to serve others (Matthew 16:25).

The habit of serving frees us from resentment and arrogance. Paul wrote, "Whatever you do, whether in word or in deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him" (Colossians 3:17). In service we learn the secret that our significance is found in God.

Serving is not merely a spiritual discipline - it is a way of orienting our entire life. However, serving as a habit will help in directing us towards a Godly life.

The opportunities to serve others are endless, and are all around us.  It is a matter of making a conscious choice to take the time to consider others, and their situation, rather than our ourselves (Philippians 2:1-4).

Here are some thoughts for you as you practice serving those around you:

1) Examine your heart and ask yourself if you are doing it to please God or to please people? Whatever you do, do it in the name of Jesus.

2) Whenever possible do your service in relative secrecy. Don’t be waiting, or looking for the pat on the back. Humility is about taking your mind off yourself and focusing on God by serving others.

3) Keep yourself open to serve anyone who you meet. Don't force yourself on someone, but don't refuse anyone any good deed.

4) Identify with people of low position. Look at people through God's eyes as someone who is in need just like you.