Called to Serve

Every Monday night, a small group of us gathers to delve into a curriculum called Rooted. This past week's study centered on the essence of serving.

One insight really stood out to me: the distinction between serving with an ulterior motive versus serving with a sense of purpose.

We can stop focusing on an agenda for others and find the freedom to focus on a purpose for ourselves. While agenda is rooted in how we see others, purpose is rooted in how we see ourselves. While agenda requires us to conquer others, purpose requires us to conform ourselves. While agenda relegates us to coercing others, purpose releases us to appreciate others. While agenda reduces us to a sliver of life, purpose moves us toward a whole humanity. And we – as Christians – may actually start to look and live like Jesus. - Jimmy Spencer, Love Without Agenda: Moving Our Spiritual Goalposts from Heaven and Hell to Wholeness

This concept struck a chord with me. Throughout my life, I've encountered individuals who are generous but seem to have an agenda. While grateful, those interactions left me wondering whether there were hidden agendas or ulterior motives behind seemingly generous acts. This is not authentic love. Gospel love is freely given, without any strings attached.

If we approach our relationships with children, neighbors, or anyone else with an underlying agenda, they will quickly perceive our true intentions, recognizing our love as a charade.

On the other hand, loving with a sense of purpose empowers us to continue loving even when it goes unrewarded. Even when our hopes and dreams for our loved ones are shattered, our purpose remains steadfast. This is the epitome of gospel love.

I reflect upon Jesus' words, "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) These words serve as both our power and our example.

This is our power because our identity and meaning stem from the unconditional love we receive from Jesus, not from the love we receive from friends, children, spouses, or loved ones. We possess an enduring foundation of love and acceptance that no earthly force, not even death, can sever from the love of God that resides in Christ Jesus.

Jesus is also our example, guiding us as we navigate our relationships. If he could love those who would ultimately crucify him, we too can love those who inflict pain upon us through their words and actions.

We inhabit a world plagued by loneliness. The world yearns to be enveloped in love, hospitality, acceptance, and grace. Who is God calling you to serve today? Can you think of someone you can reach out to and encourage? Someone you can love wholeheartedly, without any ulterior motives?

With You;
Pastor Tim