Service with a Smile

And He gave some as apostles, and some as prophets, and some as evangelists, and some as pastors and teachers, for the equipping of the saints for the work of service, to the building up of the body of Christ.  Ephesians 4:11-12

Jesus is our greatest example of selflessness.  Scripture is full of examples of Christ serving others - from going out of His way to talk to the woman at the well, to healing lepers, to washing His disciples' feet, to the ultimate sacrifice of giving His life.  "For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many."  Mark 10:45
 
The Ephesians passage above has its ultimate meaning when applied to Christ as the ascended Lord, who Himself has given gifts.  Spiritual gifts are for the building of the body, the church, and are not to be exercised individualistically.
 
Opportunities to serve are all around us, and God gives us plenty of ways to exercise our spiritual gifts, sharing the good news of the gospel and being the light of Christ in the world.  We can hold the door for a busy mom pushing a stroller, help an elderly neighbor rake their yard, or offer to get someone a refill while at a restaurant.
 
This Sunday is Youth Sunday, and the theme of the worship service is ... S-E-R-V-I-C-E.  In my Bible, the twelfth chapter of Romans is titled "Dedicated Service," a chapter in which Paul encourages all Christians to obedient spiritual service, not merely ritual activity but the involvement of heart, mind, and will.  And from a little book I keep on my desk, "Excellence Is Never An Accident," I share with you the following inspirational quote:
 
Service is love made visible.
Friendship is love made personal.
Music is love made audible.
Kindness is love made tangible.
Giving is love made believable.
 
God will put people in our paths whom we can serve today.  Let's consider their needs and serve them gladly, cultivating a friendship with a smile, and offering kindness without reservation!  GIVE, GO, LIVE!

Prayer for Today

God, help us to remember that you love us just the way we are today, but that you love us too much to let us to stay that way.  In our service to the church, help us to cultivate friendships that matter, to make music in our hearts to your glory, to offer kindness to everyone we meet, and to give of our time, talents, and treasures according to your will.  Restore us each new day according to your perfect plan for our lives.  In Jesus' name we pray.  Amen.