For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many. Matthew 20:28
Nevertheless, the firm foundation of God stands, having this seal, “The Lord knows those who are His,” and, “Everyone who names the name of the Lord is to abstain from wickedness.” Now in a large house there are not only gold and silver vessels, but also vessels of wood and of earthenware, and some to honor and some to dishonor. Therefore, if anyone cleanses himself from these things, he will be a vessel for honor, sanctified, useful to the Master, prepared for every good work. 2 Timothy 2:19-21
Jesus knew who He was and why He was here. He came to serve and not be served. Jesus cared about both the physical and spiritual needs of people but their spiritual need for redemption was at the heart of who He was and why He was here. So, when we look at ourselves, we must seek to be the kind of person who desires to serve instead of being served. We need to care about and seek to meet both the physical and spiritual needs of people but always with a view toward their redemption in Christ. In the light of the Scripture above, I think I would say it this way: I want to be one who exists to be a servant of God that He readily uses as a vessel to bless others in ways that contribute to the redemptive work He is bringing about in their lives. When we are so focused, then all the other aspects of being human beings who live life here on earth (family, work, community, friends, recreation, etc.) become the context for fulfilling our central calling and mission.
Quite a high calling. Perhaps it seems so high that it is out of reach. We have been restored to a relationship with God through redemption so that we can enjoy the blessing of God’s presence and so that we become vessels who bless the lives of others as God’s presence in us touches them in powerful ways. Quiet times with God are essential to our gaining and maintaining the focus necessary for God’s calling and mission to be central in our lives. We really can be ones who exist to be true servants of God.
Lord, I ask you to expand this prayerful moment into a very special quiet time with you. I want to experience the joy of your presence more fully and have your desires for me take hold more completely. I bow before you in worship and surrender. With full confidence in you, Lord, I look forward to remarkable personal change and abundant service to your kingdom. Amen!
