For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many. – Mark 10:45
The message Jesus preached was complimented by his actions. Jesus seized every opportunity he got to serve others. Jesus’ goal in modeling this type of servant leadership was to prepare His disciples to be able to propel God’s kingdom on earth when He was no longer with them. Jesus told them, “I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you. Very truly I tell you, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them. (John 13:15-17)
Serving comes in many forms and shapes. Although serving in its essence means doing anything and everything to further the vision, to serve also means to stand in the gap, to back something up, to add value, to be proactive rather than reactive; it means saying “I’m available. I can help.” Jesus’ model of discipleship revolved around serving. Before Peter preached, baptized and built churches, he served. Interns making coffee runs may look silly to many but it’s that kind of humility that make success stories. When I was 10, I walked up to my Pastor one Sunday and said, “I want to preach on stage.” He looked delighted. He said “Sure, follow me.” I followed him out of the sanctuary into the hallway as he finally stopped outside the men’s bathroom. He handed me a cleaning brush and asked me to scrub the latrines. Here’s a tough lesson I learnt that day, “The magnitude of a leader is connected to a heart of servitude.”
Servant leaders put aside pride and ego and replace it with humility and eagerness to see the vision fulfilled. They don’t hesitate to get on their knees, bruise their elbows, wear hard hats and run towards what needs to be done. There are a few people at Commission who’s favorite words are “Pastor how can I serve today.” When I hear those words, I know that the Church of Jesus will be built and Satan is shaking in his boots. Those words come from unselfish, humble, generous, self-sacrificing and Christ-centered people. We hold servant leadership in high regard at Commission. Our servant leaders are selfless individuals that love God and love people. Our dream team is the heartbeat of our vision as a church. Regardless of title or position, our response is always to serve. Let’s always pray for our servant leaders, and if you aren’t one, sign up to serve!
A few questions I want you to think about today. Are you serving God as much as you would like to? If no, what is keeping you from serving? What are some areas you’re struggling with in your servant leadership?
Watch this encouraging word from Janice
Resources:
Download Prayer Guide
If you missed the message on Sunday, Pastor Ashish spoke about the importance of praying first. I strongly suggest that you go listen to it as we begin this 21 day fasting and prayer. Let us resolve to always PRAY FIRST in everything we do. Listen to the message HERE
Here is a Worship Playlist you can listen to – 21-Day Fasting Playlist