The Servanthood of Jesus

"For even the Son of Man came not to be ministered to but to minister, and to give his life as a ransom for many. " Mark 10:45

We live in a "me first" society. As long as we can drive our cars at $3 and $4 per gallon. Eat our fast food and shop for things we don't really need, we are satisfied with our lives. We have little time to serve others. Children are placed in front of the television, rather than played with. The elderly are put in homes and forgotten rather than lbeing oved with dignity by their "too busy" family members. Our poorest citizens suffer in the neighborhood next door while we gain another ten pounds eating out every night. Most of us don't know our neighbors nor would we consider bringing them dinner when they are sick, or helping to watch their child for a couple hours.

I am not speaking about the unbelievers, I am talking about so-called followers of Christ. We are so self absorbed that we have forgotten one of the most fundamental teachings that Jesus gave us. Jesus expects his followers to do what he did when he walked the earth. He calls us to serve others before we think of ourselves. He calls us into a life of ministering to the needs of the people we come in contact with. We do not need to be bible experts to minister, we just need a willing spirit and an open heart.

St. Francis of Assisi is credited as saying, “Preach the gospel at all times. Use words if necessary.” It is with this spirit that Jesus ministered with his actions more than his words and that is how he wants us to spread the good news. Show others what a follower of Christ does, don't preach to them. The old saying "actions speak louder than words," should be foremost in our minds as we walk out our faith.

Father thank you that you gave us your Son to be our ministry example. Strengthen us as we get off the couch and step boldly into the lives of our neighbors and preach the gospel with our hands and feet. In Jesus name! Amen!