I still remember him showing up an hour or two before the first worship service every Sunday morning. He came to pick up trash that had blown up against the fences over the weekend. He grabbed cups and cans and papers that were laying out in the parking lot. What amazed me most, I guess, was that most people in his “position” would have thought this kind of service was “beneath them.” 

 

Stepping In: READ IT

Read Matthew 20:1-34

 

Building Up: STUDY IT

Focus on Matthew 20:26-28

 

All of us can muster up what I call a “serving moment” where we push away the feelings of wanting to do something else for ourself and we do something for someone else. Those moments can teach us and mold us and help us to become more like Jesus. However, Jesus isn’t talking about a “serving moment” here. He’s talking about being a servant.

 

A servant sees life differently. A servant notices needs, sees opportunities and moves into action. A servant relates to people in a kinder, gentler way. A servant looks to lift others up. Most of us, if we’re honest, aren’t there yet. When we see others, we’re quietly wondering what they can do for us.

 

Living Out: APPLY IT

 

Application questions (Is there a… 1. Sin to CONFESS 2. Promise to CLAIM 3. Attitude to CHANGE 4. Command to OBEY 5. Example to FOLLOW (or not) 6. Prayer to PRAY 7. Error to AVOID 8. Truth to BELIEVE 9. Something to PRAISE GOD FOR). 

 

The example to follow here is the clear one set by our Lord and King, Jesus. He had every right to be served and worshipped and applauded, but He came to serve.

 

Dear Father, forgive me for ever thinking that the people you’ve placed around me are there to serve me. I want to help them, push them, encourage them…but most of all, serve them. I know I will honor you best when, like You, I choose to serve. Show me who needs my service today.