A Reflection On Service - 365 Pocket Devotions

When I wonder how best to help others

What is true servanthood? Many mistake it for slavery—being on call for the whims and pleasures of another. Biblical servanthood is different. It actively seeks the true well-being of others. Just as Jesus served His disciples and us in a completely unexpected way—dying for sins rather than overthrowing our earthly enemies—we are called to do what’s best for others. Serving others should deepen their relationship with God and demonstrate grace.

Do we spend our days looking for those whom we might serve? Probably not. Our own agendas become so large and consuming that we rarely depart from them, at least not without feeling inconvenienced. Yet servanthood is integral to the gospel. Nowhere else does Jesus give us a path to greatness. Need an illustration? Think of a life that began in a lowly stable and ended in human sacrifice for the sins of the world. It was servanthood from beginning to end. And no greater life was ever lived.

Whoever wants to be a leader among you must be your servant.

Matthew 20:26