A TIME TO SERVE
Carey Madding
Today's Scripture: “Then he poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples' feet and to wipe them with the towel that was wrapped around him.” John 13:5, ESV
Theme: During the Christmas season, we can bless and serve others as Jesus did when He knelt to wash the disciples’ feet, including Judas’ traitorous feet.
CHILDISH
As children, Christmas is this magical time. It’s all about us! We can be reminded to think about Jesus and His birth, but let’s face it: most often, we are thinking of the gifts we want.
As adults, gifts may not be a priority. More likely, it’s the events we need to host or attend, the presents we need to buy, and the financial strain we may be facing. These are practical matters, but they are “me-focused” as well. Even when selecting a gift for a loved one or friend, we may be considering how this will be received: Is it big enough? Did I get it right? Will they appreciate how much time/effort/thought I put into this gift?
“ME-FOCUSED” LEADS TO IMPATIENCE
One of the ways Jesus served others was to give them His time. In this season, our time seems to be in short supply. So, we pick and choose who deserves our time and attention. Which event can I skip? Which invitation can I put off? It’s valid to try and limit extra events and spread them out into the long, quiet evenings of January and February. But we can also begin to treat coworkers, store attendants, and waiters or waitresses as if they are impeding our progress or trying to mess up our day. Our personal stress leads us to feel impatient and entitled. Jesus had exactly the opposite mindset.
SERVING LIKE CHRIST
What if I changed my focus? What it I allowed Christ to rule in my heart and give me His love for others? When the clerk is deliberately ignoring me or just being super slow as she both rings me out AND talks to her co-worker, what if I smiled and inwardly prayed for her? What if I took time to ask others about their health and families as I was waiting in line? What if I not only attended that event, but offered to come early and assist the host? Could I take a meal, make a visit, send a card—even in this crazy time of year—that would change someone’s heart or give them the encouragement they need to go on?
Jesus did not pick and choose. He served. He even washed the feet of Judas, knowing full well what would happen in the next few hours. What if I served whomever and whenever an opportunity presented itself: in Cove Kids, at the local ministry, in my family, and in my neighborhood? What if the irritating person before me became my Judas and I loved and served him or her as Christ has served and been gracious to me?
Make It Personal: Are there ways you could serve, but you hesitate to “extend” yourself? Everything about this season – except Jesus Christ Himself – pushes us towards self-centeredness. Flip the switch. Intentionally develop the “mind of Christ,” considering others, serving them, and encouraging them. Think of one action you could do this week for someone else. Or commit to looking for the random opportunities God will bring across your path.
Pray: Lord God, You gave us the greatest Gift, Your only Son. And Jesus told us to serve others. May I submit my will to Yours, offering my heart, my time, my energy, resources, and attitudes to You, so that I may serve all You bring into my life as You have graciously served me. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.
Read: John 13:1-17
Weekly Memory Verse: “For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” Mark 10:45, ESV