On Being a Servant

“The Tip-O-Meter sure is winding down!” I muttered as the waitress walked out of earshot. The restaurant was nearly empty. My husband, son and I were sitting in a local big-chain pancake house having our April Fool’s Day Dinner*. As we were waiting to be served, we were stunned at how rude the staff was to us and to each other.

What happened to “service with a smile”, “the customer is always right!” and “have it your way”? Isn’t it funny how service-oriented we want things to be when we are on the receiving end?

As a Christian, however, I am called to a different place. I am called to BE the servant, not to be served.

And all of you, serve each other in humility, for “God opposes the proud but favors the humble.” 1 Peter 5:5

During this Holy Week, as we approach Easter, many of us are focusing on Christ’s sacrifice for us. This sacrifice is the ultimate example of servitude and obedience.

Whoever wants to be a leader among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first among you must be the slave of everyone else. For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many. Mark 10:43-45

In looking at Christ’s example, I’m compelled to understand more clearly what it means for me to truly serve. I spent some time researching, and I found a few verses that pointed me in some new directions.

A servant of the Lord must not quarrel but must be kind to everyone, be able to teach, and be patient with difficult people. 2 Timothy 2:24

Love each other with genuine affection, and take delight in honoring each other. Never be lazy, but work hard and serve the Lord enthusiastically. Romans 12:10-11

For you have been called to live in freedom, my brothers and sisters. But don’t use your freedom to satisfy your sinful nature. Instead, use your freedom to serve one another in love. Galatians 5:13

May you have a blessed Easter!
Lundie

*My husband and I choose to celebrate April Fool’s day in place of Valentine’s Day

Questions: What comes to mind for you when you hear the terms “servant” and “service”? Has God placed any new thoughts on your heart about serving others?