It is my prayer that every Christian recognizes the importance of serving God through the way we serve others.  There are few things, if any, that are as emotionally exhilarating, and draining, as the task of serving others.  Having worked in a variety of ministry settings, including various roles within Christian camp ministry, I understand the excitement that often comes with the beginning of a new ministry or ministry season.  I also understand the weariness than can develop when our focus begins to drift away from the ministry of serving and onto ourselves.

This is day one in the first week of devotions from the book, “Serving God: Devotions for Active Worship”.  This devotional book is laid out in thirteen weeks of daily devotions with each week wrapped around an aspect of how we can serve others.  Each of these devotions are designed to help a person spend time with God to see how serving others is an act of worship.

Serving God:
Serve Because of God’s Calling

“You, my brothers, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the sinful nature; rather, serve one another in love.  The entire law is summed up in a single command: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.”‘
Galatians 5:13-14 (NIV)

Why are you here?  Not just why are you here on earth, though that is part of the question, but why are you here at this particular time and place?  What do you hope to get out of the position you have?  What do you expect to give?  How will you use the freedom you have in Christ?  Have you ever thought about being free to serve?

It is important to always remember that, as Christians, each one of us has been called by God to serve others.  Knowing and remembering this should help us keep our minds focused on Jesus in all we do.  Serving usually isn’t glamorous.  And done well it doesn’t often gain the attention of others.  Knowing that we are called by God to serve should help keep our jealousy at bay when others serve in more noticeable and enjoyable ways. 

As you pray this week, ask God to fill you with the attitude of Jesus who humbled Himself and became a servant of all.  Pray that you would have a greater understanding of what you are doing to serve and who you are serving.  Pray that each member of your team would better grasp the necessity of serving as a way of life.

In prayer,

Tom