Here's an example of serving..."Jesus knew that the Father had given him complete power; he knew that he had come from God and was going to God. So he rose from the table, took off his outer garment, tied a towel around his waist, poured some water into a basin and began to wash the disciples' feet." (John 13:3-5 NRSV)Each day I'm supposed to become more like Jesus--this is God's intention (Romans 8:29). And yet, instead of looking to other's needs, I find myself more and more focused on what I want.
To think that I would learn to serve like Jesus seems impossible...
Until I realize that Jesus based his serving on what he knew God was doing through him. His ability to serve others came from his understanding of who he was and how he was being used in God's "big picture". Jesus looked past the actual hands-on to see the difference he was making in someone's life for God's purposes.
All too often, my problem is that I only see my sacrifice or effort and miss the fact that God is using me to reach someone's heart.
I need God to help me come to terms with who I am in Him so I can be all He wants me to be in the lives of others.
