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“For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” — Mark 10:45, NIV
It is an unfortunate truth that people are often self-centered and form habits that serve themselves, sometimes even at the cost of others. This is due to our sinful nature that convinces us that serving ourselves is what is best and will make us happiest. However, as Christians, we are called to live differently, not like the rest of the world. Instead of looking to serve ourselves, we should look to serve Jesus Christ foremost as well as others.
Jesus is the perfect example of service towards others. He came to the world and rather than be served by others he himself served others with kindness and humility. From healing those who were sick or possessed and washing the disciple’s feet to dying a gruesome death on the cross, Jesus shows us what real love and the heart of a servant truly looks like.
“You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.” —Galatians 5:13, NIV
Serving others involves more than simply our actions. Rather, it involves our hearts and attitudes towards each other while we are serving; it involves love. Once again, we can look to Jesus as an example for this. He did not serve begrudgingly but instead showed true humility and love while he helped peopled from different backgrounds and social standings.
“If I speak in the tongues of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. If I give all I possess to the poor and give over my body to hardship that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing.” — 1 Corinthians 13:1-3, NIV
How can we love and serve others? Here are a few ways to serve others:
“Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.” — Romans 12:9-13, NIV
Serving one another like Christ served involves treating others with honor and respect. Romans 12 tells us to “be devoted to one another in love.” Our actions and service should be a reflection of Christ and how he loves.
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