Why We Should Love To Serve

On the evening before Christ’s crucifixion, Jesus washed the disciples’ feet and then said, “I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you…” (John 13:15). Jesus called His first disciples to a life of service and what was true for them is true for us. We, too, are called to a life of service. It is not only a choice we must each make, it is the choice we should all take. We should love to serve—here is why:
 
First, service brings us internal enjoyment. That is what Jesus promised. Look how He finished His words of instruction in John 13: “I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you…Now that you know these things, you will be blessed (happy) if you do them” (John 13:15,17). Albert Schweitzer once wrote, “The only ones among us who will be really happy are those who will have sought and found how to serve.” The road to happiness is paved with love and service.
 
It just makes sense that you are going to feel better about yourself, and within yourself, if you are giving away something of yourself. No wonder Jesus said after He washed the disciples’ feet as an act of service, “You will be blessed if you do (these things)” (John 13:17).
 
Inward blessing comes from outward giving. Inner peace comes when we give a piece of our lives away to others. You will be blessed most if you choose first to be a blessing.
 
Secondly, service brings us a sense of personal accomplishment. Jesus said it was the way to greatness or accomplishment. “Whoever wants to be great among you must be your servant” (Mt.20:26).
 
Isn’t it true that people you admire the most are those who are giving something of themselves to others? Indeed, the people we look up to the most, and whose lives challenge us to reach higher, are those who are giving something back in life. We do not admire people for being selfish; we admire those who exemplify a life of service.
 
It gets down to a lifestyle choice. On the night before His death, Jesus called for a basin of water and proceeded to wash the disciples’ feet. In contrast, remember what Pilate did the next day when he had an opportunity to acquit Jesus. He called for a basin of water and washed his hands of the whole thing. You will follow either one example or the other. Which will it be for you? I promise you this: if you will follow Jesus into a life of service, you will be blessed and you will fulfill a life of accomplishment. These are a couple of reasons why we should love to serve (and there are more). But remember: By God’s grace, it’s your choice!
 
Devotedly yours,
 Pastor Ron