Following the Servant King

3/16/2024

"Even as the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many." - Matthew 20:28 ESV

Admittedly, many of us prefer to be served rather than to serve others. We crave the feeling of significance and being esteemed over the humility of serving. Yet, while God has indeed bestowed upon us uniqueness, importance, and His own image, His children cannot exempt themselves from serving, for Jesus, our ultimate example, never shied away from it.

He, the Son of God, the King of kings, willingly took on the form of a servant. His life was not characterized by seeking to be served, but by actively serving others. Jesus didn't arrive seeking servitude but to surrender His life for the redemption and rescue of humanity. This profound truth calls for our attention.

Matthew 20:28 captures the essence of Jesus' ministry on earth. He didn't come to demand homage or to be waited upon, but rather to demonstrate humility and selflessness through service. His ultimate act of service was giving his life as a ransom for many, bearing the weight of humanity's sin on the cross to reconcile us to God.

As followers of Christ, we are called to emulate his example of servanthood. Just as Jesus laid aside his divine rights for the sake of others, we are called to lay aside our own desires and preferences to serve those around us. This is not always easy in a world that often prioritizes self-promotion and personal gain. However, when we choose to serve others with love and humility, we reflect the character of Christ to the world.

Serving others isn't limited to grand gestures or extraordinary acts. In fact, Jesus cautioned against performing grand acts solely for recognition, uttering lofty prayers merely for an audience, and pursuing positions of honor just for acclaim. (Matthew 6 and 20) So how do we serve? It can be as simple as lending a listening ear to a friend in need, offering a helping hand to someone struggling, or showing kindness to a stranger. Every act of service, no matter how small, has the potential to demonstrate the love of Christ and make a difference in someone's life.

In serving others, we also find fulfillment and purpose. Jesus himself said, "It is more blessed to give than to receive" (Acts 20:35). When we shift our focus from ourselves to the needs of others, we experience the joy that comes from making a positive impact and living out our faith in practical ways.

Let’s heed the words of Jesus and follow in his footsteps as servants of God and humanity. May we strive to embody his selfless love and sacrificial service in all that we do, bringing glory to his name and advancing his kingdom here on earth.

Contemplate what it meant for Jesus to bear your sins and wipe away your faults. Does it stir worship within you? Gratitude? Do you feel compelled to share this news with others? Today, petition God to reveal how you can extend service to others, mirroring His example of selfless love toward you.

Pastor Jeff

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