Marriage Anchors

“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)

“You will know you are a servant when people start treating you like one.” Perhaps this is why servanthood, though sounding popular, is not all that sought after. Have you ever been treated like a servant?

There are times, if we are honest, when serving in the church or on the mission field, or helping a friend or family member, we’d kind of like to get some thanks and notice. There is nothing wrong with giving or receiving appreciation, but this should never be allowed to bake in the oven of our minds for more than it takes to expel this contemptable temptation.

Have you ever had someone, say, in church, or during a retreat, humbly wash your feet? Have you ever washed someone else’s feet? I have. It is humbling and a tad embarrassing on both sides of the equation. When I’m tired, fending off a headache or aching muscles, or just plain weary of the daily grind, the last thing I want is to serve another selflessly.

During some of those times, I rather be served or just left alone. Have you ever entered your kitchen only to find dirty dishes in the sink waiting to be washed? Enough said.

Christianity, and God’s overarching message of redemption, are messaged to the world by Jesus followers with servant’s hearts, approachable hearts, and humble hearts. People catch a glimpse of Jesus when the Christian refuses to run from service. Others are blessed when the Christian chooses to serve quietly, looking for no fanfare or limelight. Jesus came to serve. He always does. Let’s pray He would help us to do likewise today.

“For what we proclaim is not ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord, with ourselves as your servants for Jesus' sake.”  (2Corinthians 4:5)