Read
Galatians 5:13-14 (NIV)
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. For the entire law is fulfilled in keeping this one command: “Love your neighbour as yourself.

Reflect
From the outside or from a place of not knowing – people would think that no one would ever want to sign up for a life of servitude. And yet, that is what God has in mind for his people. God knows how service to others will bless us as, well as the community around us.

Service is a great way to put aside our self-centeredness and notice how we are connected, even indebted, to others. When we start seeing the genuine needs of others, it removes our own sense of entitlement. None of us became the people we are alone, but by the sacrifice and investment of many others from our earliest years: parents, siblings, relatives, teachers, coaches, etc.  And that doesn’t take into account what Christ has done for us

Serving others not only reveals the bonds between us; it reflects the love of God. When we notice service to us, and when we serve others, we experience God’s grace. Serving points people to Christ. Jesus modeled grace that goes way beyond our understanding. He emptied himself for us, though we deserved nothing. His example calls us to “submit to one another out of reverence for Christ” (Ephesians 5:21). In our “me-first” culture, God calls us to put others first. What a challenge!

Are we looking out for others the way we look out for ourselves? Can we put their needs ahead of our own? How are you serving in your community?

Pray
Lord, teach us how to serve one another. Help us to put the needs of others ahead of ourselves. Show us ways to use our gifts to bless others. In Jesus name, Amen.