Called to be a Humble Servant
Primary Scripture: Read Mark 9:33-37
So what does Jesus want us to do? Jesus wants us to care for others. He especially wants us to care for those who are less fortunate, poor and those who are feeble. In Proverbs 19:17 we read “He who is gracious to the poor lends to the Lord and He will repay him for his good deed.” An example of caring is seen as we go back to look at Mark, Chapter 9. In verse 36 we read that Jesus takes a child into His arms. With the child in His arms, Jesus says “Whoever receives a child like this in My name is receiving Me, and whoever receives Me is not receiving Me, but the one who sent Me.” Mark 9: 37. In that time in history the children were considered to have no status in society until they came of age. So this is a powerful example of caring as Jesus receives and holds a defenseless child. Jesus wants us to receive and care for others as we would receive and care for a child. In doing this we will also get the love and help that Jesus received from God, who sent Jesus to show us how to care. Our hearts and minds will be motivated to serve Christ and the kingdom as we care for others as a humble servant.
In finding ways to serve, we will probably be called to come out of our comfort zone. To serve in our community, local church or wherever we are called to go can be a challenge. The giving of our time, talent and treasure in service is pleasing to God. As Paul reminded the Hebrews, “and do not forget to do good and to share with others for such sacrifices please God.” Hebrews. 13:16
As we move out of our comfort zone to be of service, we will learn to trust God more. We will seek God’s help through the power of the Holy Spirit to give us guidance and to help us overcome our fear and anxiety. I believe this is what Paul asked God in a prayer for the church at Ephesus…. “ that God would grant you (the Ephesians) according to the riches of His glory to be strengthened with power through His Holy Spirit in the inner man.” Ephesians 3:16. With this inner strength provided by the Spirit, we will seek more ways to help and serve for the glory of God.
Finally, the reward of being a humble servant will help us have a closer relationship with Jesus and our Heavenly Father. If we help those who are marginalized in our community, country, and this world; then we will learn what it is to be more compassionate, generous and kind. Along the journey of helping, we will receive blessings. “He who is generous will be blessed. For he shares some of his food with the poor.” Proverbs 22:9. So let us go forth in our daily journey to be open to God’s calling us to be of service to help others with humility and love.
……as we think about ways to serve, a few songs