I initially penned this article just hours before my knee surgery. The last couple of weeks have been difficult on several levels (Not to be compared with the adversities that others are experiencing.) Whether the events of the past week fall within God’s permissive will or His purposed will, it is here that I am placed: and it is in this setting that I ponder our theme a knew for 2016.
Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith. Galatians 6:10
One thing is for sure, it is God’s will that we be busy serving those around us. For some though, the question may be, “How do I serve?” What am I called to do? Over the last couple of weeks, I have been on the receiving end of being served (awkward to say the least, but extremely eye opening). Here are a couple things God is teaching me that I would like to pass along:
His love for me is not dependent upon my work.
In part, His love for me is expressed through others who serve me.
My pride can hinder that love from being expressed.
Okay, so where am I going with this? In order for the “us” in the above verse to serve, there needs to be the “those” who are willing to be served. What I am realizing these last couple of weeks is this, when I am reluctant to invite people in to help me through serving, I squelch the use of gifts which God has given to us all. I couldn’t help but think of Paul’s words in 1st Corinthians 12:21, “And the eye cannot say to the hand, ‘I have no need of you’; nor again the head to the feet, ‘I have no need of you.’”
I thank God for each and every one of you. The year ahead will be one where we can grow in our understanding of what it means to serve, how we can serve (gifts) and how we need to let others serve us to the glory of His name. Let us do good to all Lord and help us to do so.
Dennis
