How often do you serve?
B. Keith Chapman, President & CEO
Martin Luther King Jr. once said, “Everybody can be great… because anybody can serve.” It has long been established that serving others produces satisfaction and joy. Most don’t have a problem serving close friends or family. However, if you limit yourself to just those that are close to you, you are missing out. A heart of service may come naturally for some, but for most, it generally requires a concerted effort. If you have ever volunteered with an organization, church, or non-profit, you have probably experienced first-hand the shortage of people that are willing to give some of their time for the cause. Finding volunteers for events and various responsibilities can certainly be a challenge. It seems that people are often too busy or uninterested in investing time in others.
For some, the spirit of servanthood is something that was demonstrated by a parent or role model. Others have figured out the joy of serving by volunteering to help with a cause that pulls on their heartstrings. The truth is, we all have an example to follow. Mark 10:45 says, “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.” The passages that led up to this verse explain that whoever desires to be a leader must serve. Verse 45 explains that even Jesus was not exempt from the call to be humble and serve. Throughout the Bible, Jesus demonstrated service from the washing of the disciples’ feet to His ultimate sacrifice on the cross. The unique thing about this type of service is that it happens naturally as part of the journey. There wasn’t a signup sheet to help wash feet or pray for the sick. As the opportunity presented itself, He served without hesitation.
If you have ever taken some time away from serving or volunteering, you will recognize the loss of the satisfaction felt when investing in others. Serving forces us to take time to focus on others and not just ourselves. Life is busier than ever, and most feel as though they don’t have an extra minute. However, exercising a servant’s spirit doesn’t mean you have to volunteer at a non-profit 40 hours a month (although may be appropriate for some). It simply requires us to look for opportunities along our journey. Offering to get someone a cup of coffee, helping a coworker with a project or helping a neighbor with some yard work are all examples of serving. Many of the opportunities that present themselves don’t take much time or effort, but the impact on those around us can be significant. Make a point over the next few weeks to look for opportunities to serve. When they present, serve to the best of your ability and then enjoy the fulfillment of your actions.
Challenge: Look for opportunities to serve in your daily activities; take advantage of them when they present. Enjoy the satisfaction and joy that comes from being a servant. Never underestimate the impact that serving can have on others.
Published: May 1, 2019
