Free to Serve

Often, when serving dinner for my family, my kids seem, let’s say, “less than grateful.”  It’s on these evenings that I need to remind myself that service to my family is not just one of the “jobs” I perform as their momma, but it’s my privilege.  Because of Christ’s service to me (his death on a cross for my sins), I am liberated to serve my family - unconditionally and sacrificially - without worrying if they care or appreciate my effort. After his crucifixion and resurrection, Jesus appeared to his disciples while they were fishing.  Standing unrecognized on the shore, he told them where and how to catch the most fish, and then he prepared breakfast for them and had it waiting when they arrived (John 21:1-12).  No thought came with regards to whether they deserved his advice OR whether they’d appreciate his breakfast.  Jesus simply served them out of pure love and devotion to his ministry AND for his Father.  What a gift!  We have a standard.  Jesus is among us "as one who serves” (Luke 22:27) so that we can serve others in his name in spite of what other people have to say (or don’t say).

So, when preparing dinner tonight (or filling someone else’s car with gas, or making someone’s bed or unloading the dishwasher), keep Jesus and his service to you in mind.  It really helps.