December 26
Scripture: Matt 20:28
Source author: Janet Graham
December 26
Surprised by Service For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many. —Matthew 20:28
Josh is doing dishes!” Quickly the message spread through the hundred-member staff in our youth ministry. Why was it so amazing that Josh was helping wash dishes after the luncheon? Because Josh had just spoken at the luncheon. He was a bestselling author and an enormously popular speaker, leading a week of evening meetings and a couple of lunch banquets. On other days, Josh was out in the freezing weather, helping with construction for the youth ranch our ministry was building. No one would have thought twice if Josh had rested during the day while preparing to share God’s Word at night to the packed-out crowds. Instead, he encouraged us by entering our world, by becoming one of us, by actually being a servant to us. What an odd thing for Josh McDowell to come to my mind during the Christmas season. But then again, maybe not. For isn’t that what this time of year—and this Christian lifestyle— is all about? God stepping down to be one of us, and teaching us to enter others’ worlds with love too.
Who can you surprise with your service this week? — Janet Graham —