The Joy of Service

Yesterday was Valentine's Day. Did you spend time with your sweetie? Discover a way to show your significant other just how much you care? I did something a bit different this year by serving my family a 3 course meal. While everyone was away doing their own thing late in the afternoon, I took over the kitchen and dining room to prepare a meal that I knew they would enjoy. The table was set with red and white, using the fancy plates saved only for special occasions, candles were lit and each of my girls (living at home) were escorted to the table. (okay, it wasn't quite as picture perfect as this, but it was fun. Hannah couldn't stay for the start of the meal, so she had to catch up when she returned home.) It was a beautiful time together, sharing my love with them, and theirs with me through their enjoyment and their laughter.

I'm not bragging. I'm just blessed. And I tell this story simply because I received an additional blessing through my service to them last night, giving of my time and my energy to do something for someone else. And it was fun!

Did you ever wonder what Jesus meant when he said these things?

"But many who seem to be important now will be the least important then, and those who are considered least here will be the greatest then." (Matthew 19:30, NLT).

“And so it is, that many who are first now will be last then; and those who are last now will be first then.” (Matthew 20:16, NLT).

These phrases, spoken one right after the other, were (and still are) meant to challenge the disciples and to show them the true nature of the kingdom. It's not about them, it's not about me, rather it's about God and it's about those around us. And the nature of people in the kingdom...servants.

That's right, servants. It's what we are to become if we are to enter the kingdom, if we are to fully become like Christ, if we are to take seriously what Jesus said and does.

This week, we'll press the easy button and look at becoming a servant of God and a servant of the people of God. And I can guarantee one thing...

...It's not easy, but it's right!

Peace ><>
PC