New Wine - Day 33

“If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. For I have given you an example, that you also should do just as I have done to you.” -John 13:14-15

“…whoever would be great among you must be your servant, and whoever would be first among you must be slave of all.” -Mark 10.43-44

“As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace.” -1 Peter 4:10

Serving may not technically be a “spiritual discipline,” but I’m including it because we are to practice it regularly, and in a sense, it often requires discipline. Sometimes we won’t feel like serving others, and we will need to cry to the Lord for grace, then “discipline” ourselves to serve even when we don’t feel like it. Even using our gifts can require discipline.

The more we obey Jesus’ commands to serve others, the more joy it will bring into our lives. Sometimes, we can “schedule” our serving; at other times, it is more spontaneous. But I believe Jesus calls all of us to imitate him and serve others, whether we feel like it or not, in the same way, God calls us to regularly meditate on his word and pray, though we will often not feel like it.

Service can happen at the church, at home, in our communities, or even at random places and spaces. Not all service helps those we serve, so we do need to be thoughtful about the kind of service we are giving to those in need. Well-meaning Christians have often allowed their helping to hurt, so it is always good to partner with organizations that are already establishing systems of advocacy and help so that we do the best possible things for our neighbors that might need help.

JOURNAL

1. When was the last time you served beyond your regular life? 
2. How can you get in touch with organizations that are doing great work already? 
3. What do you think you can do in order to make sure you and your family are serving those who need the help?