In a world obsessed with status and recognition, we often find ourselves pondering what it truly means to be great. Is greatness measured by our achievements, our wealth, or our influence? While society might define greatness in these terms, there’s a radically different perspective that challenges our conventional understanding – one that turns our notion of greatness on its head.
Imagine a scene where a group of friends are arguing about who among them is the greatest. It’s a familiar scenario, reminiscent of playground disputes or heated debates among sports fans. Now picture their leader, the one they all respect and follow, quietly standing up, wrapping a towel around his waist, and beginning to wash their feet. This powerful image comes from the biblical account of Jesus and his disciples at their last meal together, and it perfectly encapsulates a revolutionary idea: true greatness lies in service.
Jesus taught that the path to greatness is not found in lording authority over others or seeking the highest positions. Instead, he said, “The one who is greatest among you must become like the youngest, and the leader like the one who serves.” (Luke 22:26) This statement turns our cultural understanding of leadership and importance upside down. It suggests that the truly great are those who humble themselves to serve others.
But why is service so important? The answer lies in its power to communicate love. When we serve others, especially when it’s challenging or inconvenient, we demonstrate a love that goes beyond mere words or emotions. It’s a love of choice and action, reflecting the unconditional love that God has for each of us.
Think about the most profound acts of love you’ve witnessed or experienced. Often, they involve sacrifice and service. A parent changing a baby’s diaper in the middle of the night. A friend giving up their weekend to help you move. A stranger stopping to help someone with a flat tire. These acts of service, big and small, have the power to touch hearts and change lives because they communicate love in a tangible way.
The ultimate example of this serving love is found in Jesus himself. Throughout his life, Jesus consistently put the needs of others before his own. He healed the sick, comforted the broken-hearted, and even washed his disciples’ feet – a task usually reserved for the lowest servants. His entire ministry was characterized by service, culminating in the ultimate act of love: giving his life for others.
This example challenges us to reconsider how we live our lives. Are we primarily focused on our own needs and desires, or are we looking for opportunities to serve others? The invitation is clear: if we want to experience true greatness, we must embrace a lifestyle of service.
However, it’s important to note that serving others isn’t always easy or accompanied by warm, fuzzy feelings. Love, as demonstrated through service, is often a choice rather than an emotion. It’s deciding to help even when we don’t feel like it, to be kind to someone who has hurt us, or to sacrifice our time and comfort for the sake of others. This kind of love reflects the unchanging, unwavering love that God has for us – a love that isn’t based on our performance or worthiness, but on His character.
As we contemplate this call to serve, we might wonder how to practically incorporate it into our lives. The key is intentionality. Just as we schedule important meetings or events, we need to be deliberate about creating opportunities to serve. This might mean volunteering at a local charity, helping out in our community, or simply being more attentive to the needs of those around us in our daily lives.
Moreover, our attitude in serving is crucial. It’s easy to serve in ways that draw attention to ourselves, seeking praise or recognition. However, true service, the kind that reflects God’s love, points beyond ourselves to something greater. As Jesus said, “Let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” (Matthew 5:16) Our goal in serving should be to reflect God’s love, not to promote ourselves.
Embracing a lifestyle of service doesn’t necessarily mean adding more activities to our already busy schedules. Instead, it might involve reevaluating our priorities and replacing some of our self-focused activities with opportunities to serve others. It’s about cultivating a heart that’s always ready to lend a hand, offer encouragement, or meet a need.
As we conclude, let’s reflect on this profound truth: the path to greatness is paved with acts of service. It’s a journey that requires humility, sacrifice, and love. But it’s also a journey that leads to the most fulfilling and impactful life possible. By serving others, we not only make a difference in their lives but also experience personal growth and a deeper connection with the source of all love.
So, let’s challenge ourselves to look for opportunities to serve today. Whether it’s a small act of kindness for a family member or a larger commitment to volunteer in our community, each act of service is a step towards true greatness. As we do so, may we always remember the ultimate example of serving love – a love so great that it gave everything for us, inviting us to experience and share that same transformative love with the world around us.
Sermon Recaps are based on my original messages delivered at Grace Christian Church.
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