The Call to Serve
In a world that often feels dark and hopeless, there's a beautiful reminder that God continues to send children into this world because there is hope. Each child represents God's masterpiece, uniquely crafted with gifts and talents waiting to be discovered. But beyond celebrating new life, there's a deeper calling for every believer - the call to serve.
What Does It Mean to Truly Serve?
Many people attend church as consumers, sitting and receiving messages, worship, and ministry. While receiving is important, it's only half of the equation. True Christian living involves both receiving and giving back through service.
The difference between secular work and kingdom work is profound. In the business world, no one wants to be taken advantage of or used. But in God's kingdom, the desire should be exactly the opposite - to be used and taken advantage of for His glory, allowing Him to use our gifts, talents, and resources.
Why Is Serving So Difficult?
The struggle between serving and staying comfortable is real for everyone. The spirit is willing, but the flesh resists. We're naturally concerned about our comfort zones and hesitant to step into areas that might challenge us.
However, there's nothing more comforting than laying your head down at night knowing you served people and gave them everything you had. Those who serve regularly will tell you it's the most rewarding thing they do.
Jesus: The Ultimate Example of Service
In John 13, we see Jesus washing His disciples' feet - a powerful demonstration of servant leadership. Despite being their Teacher and Lord, Jesus took on the role of a servant, showing that no one is too important to serve others.
When Peter initially resisted Jesus washing his feet, it revealed a pride issue that many of us face. We're quick to serve others but reluctant to let others serve us. Jesus made it clear: "If I, then your Lord and Teacher have washed your feet, you also should wash one another's feet. For I have given you an example that you should do as I have done to you."
What Opportunities Exist for Service?
Every church needs workers to function effectively. From greeting and security to children's ministry, student ministry, worship teams, tech teams, and coffee service - it takes many people working together to create an environment where others can encounter God.
The beauty is that everyone has different gifts and personalities. Some are natural evangelists who never meet a stranger. Others are detail-oriented like accountants. Some are called to be missionaries, while others serve in the secular world at high levels for kingdom purposes. Everything needed is already present in the church community.
How Does God Use Our Service?
God doesn't need our money, service, or participation, but He's designed His kingdom to work through these principles. He wants us to:
Belong to His kingdom family
Serve others as He served us
Give of our time, talents, and treasure
This design isn't for God's benefit - it's for ours. Those who make the decision to serve regularly find their lives are better and more blessed.
What's the Difference Between Secular Work and Kingdom Work?
While secular work is important for providing for our families, kingdom work has eternal consequences. You might spend years in a job that, in the grand scheme of things, doesn't matter much. But when you serve in God's kingdom, you're impacting lives for eternity.
The transition from building your own kingdom to serving God's kingdom can be life-changing. It moves you from frustration and trying to serve two masters to the joy and fulfillment of serving the One who matters most.
How Can You Get Started?
The call to serve isn't about pressure - it should be a natural response to God's love. If you want to make a difference in the world, the opportunity is right in front of you. The only thing standing in the way is often ourselves.
Start by asking God a simple question: "Lord, what would you have me to do?" Then listen for His voice. He's already placed gifts and talents within you that can be used effectively in His kingdom.
Life Application
This week, commit to moving from being a consumer to being a contributor in God's kingdom. Take 90 days to serve in a specific ministry area at your church. Whether it's greeting people, helping with children, supporting the worship team, or any other area of need - step out of your comfort zone and into service.
Ask yourself these questions:
What gifts and talents has God given me that I could use to serve others?
What's really holding me back from serving - fear, pride, or simply being too comfortable?
How might my life change if I committed to serving others the way Jesus served me?
What would it look like for me to seek first God's kingdom instead of building my own?
Remember, you have the opportunity to be part of something with eternal significance. Don't disqualify yourself from what God wants to do. Step into the game - you were built for kingdom service.