DAY 26: Service

I Am At Your Humble Service

Matthew 25:31-46

When the Son of Man comes in his glory…

We know there are many ways of looking at God, but it becomes confusing when two ways seem to contradict each other. Here's a good case of that confusion: Jesus begins by naming himself as the king who is to come and be seated on a throne in glory, yet a few words later, he identifies himself with the most wretched people in his society.

Jesus lived among and identified with people who were hungry, thirsty, unwelcome, sick, naked, and imprisoned. It's very hard to envision Jesus today as a homeless person, a prison inmate, an AIDS patient, or a refugee trying to find a home. Jesus' words predict his eventual heavenly reign, and, at the same time, his empathy for and service to the poor, sick, hungry, and weary.

So how do you "go and do likewise"? That is, serve like Jesus and not be obsessed with becoming a martyr, leader in a powerful position, or a person with great authority. Christ served "the least of these" as the Son of God while living in a community of disciples and humanity. Remember that there is humility to be learned in serving others and great joy and support to be experienced in the community that God surrounds you with.

What kinds of service or human conditions make you feel uncomfortable or nervous? How is it different when you have friends by your side or supportive people in your life?

Prayer:
Servant God, motivate me to use my life for your mission through the joy and comfort you give to me through the friendship and support of others--family, friends, and people of faith. Amen

Action step:

Challenge yourself to try a form of service that might have frightened you a little in the past. Visit a hospital, volunteer at a homeless shelter, deliver meals to an older adult, spend time with someone who has a disability, tutor a student whose primary language isn't English, send a letter to the mayor to express your concerns for your community, write an article for the school newspaper challenging students to care for each other and be involved in service.
It's okay if you feel uncomfortable doing something. Pray about it, and find a way to use your gifts for God's service in a way that works for you but also challenges you.

contributed by Melissa May