20 April | Youth
«If anyone serves Me, let him follow Me; and where I am, there My servant will be also. If anyone serves Me, him My Father will honor.» John 12:26
In the New Testament, the ministry of the church is related to the activity of serving. Jesus made it clear that, in His kingdom, the lifestyle of those who minister on His behalf is similar to that of a servant. This is the word He uses to describe His followers.
In Greek culture, slaves or servants were looked down upon. It was degrading to treat a person like that. Plato said: “How can anyone be happy when they have to serve someone else?”
Imagine the impact of this teaching from Jesus to His original audience: “For who is greater, he who sits at the table, or he who serves? Is it not he who sits at the table? Yet I am among you as the One who serves” (Luke 22:27). Like Jesus, we too must take on the role of servants.
In God’s kingdom, a servant is someone who is willing to do the humblest work for the glory of Christ. Paul used this same word to describe even preachers (1 Cor 3:5).
You may have noticed that Jesus used this word for Himself. He said, “I am among you as the One who serves.” He is our model. We serve to satisfy Christ alone, and no one else. If there is a need to clean some tables, the servant will be willing to do so. If you need to wash some dirty feet in the name of Jesus, it will be an honor to serve Him in this way.
When Christ returns, as King of kings, we will receive our reward. Until that day arrives, let us be faithful servants in the service of God. Jesus and our brothers and sisters count on us.