Jesus called them together and said, “You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave – just as the Son of man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” (Matthew 20:25-28)
This year, the church wants us to learn and grow together in worship and ministry. Jesus set an example for all who serve. He reminded us of his purpose for coming into this world, He did not want people to serve him; instead He served those around Him. This is service of the highest level. He exerted his utmost and denied Himself but only for the good of others. This is the example set by Jesus to all who serve. We must learn from this. However, the Lord Jesus said that this serving relationship should also exist among his disciples, within His church, it is mutual and two-way, which means that we are to serve and also to be served. However, is our mentality in serving different from that of our leaders on earth. Today, when we serve, do we have the mentality of a servant? When in church, are we serving or waiting for someone to serve us? Let us think about this. When we share a meal with brothers and sisters in a fellowship or small group, who would you nominate to say grace? Perhaps, without a second thought, you would say “the group leader”! I suppose a group leader will not object to leading prayer and saying grace. However, why does it have to be the group leader? Is it because their spiritual life is better, that their prayer is more effective or more pleasing to God or to our ears? Why don’t you do the prayer yourself?
Other than this, when we are being served at home, do we gradually take it for granted? If one day, you turn up for worship and you find that the lights are not on, the air-conditioners are still off and there is rubbish all around, what will be your first reaction? Will you look for the church office staff or pastoral staff to deal with it? Are you going to grumble? Or, are you going to take action to handle what needs to be done? Nothing that happens in church should be taken for granted. We must together shoulder the responsibility and respond accordingly. More importantly, we should appreciate the efforts of those who serve, and not to criticise or complain. If we find any deficiencies or shortages, we should, ourselves, act to rectify the situation.
Finally, I would like to encourage you to express your appreciation and support to someone around you who is serving, express your love towards this family and its members!
Rev Wong