Being a Servant of Others

We normally read my son a bedtime story or two, to help get him in a bedtime routine and wind him down a little. He’s far too young to understand what’s going on, but we’re sure to read a Bible story from his children’s Bible storybook each night. Tonight’s story came from John 13, when the Last Supper was taking place. Jesus washed all of the disciples’ feet in an act of sheer humility. This he did as an example. In fact, Jesus specifically instructed them to serve each other (vs. 14-17). This has much broader application than foot-washing. It got me thinking: what are we currently doing to serve others?

I don’t mean to suggest that one ought to simply busy themselves and hope that they work sufficiently to satisfy this command of Christ. Instead I mean to inquire as to whether or not I have a servant’s heart. When we hear of a need, what is our reaction? Do I hope that someone else will do it, so I don’t have to? I have to say, that is a very natural reaction for me. Sometimes acts of service, in whatever form they may take, can help to reform our hearts. Sometimes it’s prayer, or reading Scripture. It may be some combination of all of these things. But I suspect it begins with repentance.

This repentance may entail a need for us to ask God to place the mind of Christ in us. Just as in Philippians 2, this mind entails a humble attitude. Isn’t that interesting? You don’t—even can’t—have a proper servant’s heart if you don’t have a proper attitude of humility. What are some ways we can serve our brothers and sisters that might not be so obvious? I’d like to hear from you in the comments section!