We talk about serving as one of the important expressions of discipleship. Jesus said that he came not to be served, but to serve. As we lift him up as our example, we do well to find ways to serve as well.

But is it natural? Does serving others naturally flow from our heart or is it a learned behavior? 

When our children were younger, I was beginning to sense a little privileged, oblivious, Southeast Charlotte attitude. It wasn’t much, but it got my attention. I made it a point to take them with me on mission trips locally and internationally for them to get a broader perspective of the world and to get dirty helping those in need. Today, I know that they (and their spouses) are people of faith who are equipped with a servants’ heart.

That’s why I was so pleased to hear that our youth group headed up to the mountains of Western North Carolina for a weeklong service trip. They will see firsthand the devastation from the hurricane and how the need continues to be great, even if the cameras and media stories have subsided. The work will not be glamorous. The cameras will not be rolling. The spotlight will not focus on them. But they will learn the importance of the words of Jesus about coming to serve rather than to be served.

Say a quick prayer this week for our youth and the adult chaperones. Let their work make a huge impact on those still affected by those storms and fires. And while they are at it, let the Spirit be at work within their own hearts to create a servant attitude that will remain with them for the rest of their lives.

I would hope that serving would come naturally as the expression of their faith. But just in case, with a little practice and hard work, the servants’ heart develops in the lives of the believers.

Peace,
Pastor Scott