True greatness: through service and availability
In world culture, the quest for greatness often takes center stage. We strive for success, recognition and positions of honor. However, Jesus, the embodiment of greatness, reveals a profound truth that continues to surprise and challenge us: true greatness lies in service.
Sarah was a young woman with a thriving career. Seeking prominence, approval, making a name for himself and gaining influence was a priority in all his daily activities. She had achieved success and recognition in her field, but a feeling of emptiness still lingered. One day, Sarah was asked to volunteer at a local shelter, serving meals to the less fortunate. She said yes and made herself available. In this humble act of service, she discovered a fulfillment that her professional accomplishments could not provide. Sarah’s story reflects the transformative power of service – a path to true greatness that Jesus himself traveled.
Mark 10:43 reminds us: “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant. » Jesus, who came not to be served but to serve and give his life for many, is the example of a life fulfilled in love and service.
Consider the paradox presented by Jesus: those who are considered the lowest in society are elevated to the top of the Kingdom of God. Our definition of greatness is turned on its head. When we choose to serve others selflessly, we align ourselves with the teachings of Jesus, seeking greatness that transcends the standards of the world.
Service is a powerful expression of love, compassion and humility, and it holds a special place at the heart of our faith. In the words of the Apostle Paul: “For you have been called to freedom. Only do not make your freedom an opportunity for the flesh, but serve one another in love” (Galatians 5:13, ESV).
Service is a calling, a divine invitation to imitate the selfless love that Jesus demonstrated during his earthly ministry. Jesus says, “For even the Son of Man came, not to be ministered to, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many” (Mark 10:45, ESV). This profound truth underscores the essence of Christian discipleship – a life lived in service to others. However, serving is not just an obligation; it’s a privilege. It is an opportunity to align our lives with the teachings of Christ and become vessels of his transformative love.
It is essential to cultivate a spirit of humility in our service, recognizing that it is God who gives us power for every good work. In Philippians 2:3-4 (ESV), Paul encourages us with these words: “Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility consider others more important than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others.
As we learn to serve, let us also seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit, who gives us the gifts necessary for our unique role in the body of Christ. In 1 Peter 4:10-11 (ESV), Peter writes, “As each has a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s manifold grace: everyone who speaks, as he who speaks of the oracles of God; serves, as one who serves by the strength that God provides – that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ.
Let us pray:
Heavenly Father, we come before You with grateful hearts, recognizing the privilege and joy of serving others in Your name. Thank you for the example of your Son, Jesus Christ, who came not to be served but to serve. Grant us the humility to serve sincerely, the wisdom to discern the needs of those around us, and the strength to act with love. May our service bring glory to your name and reflect the transforming power of your grace. In the name of Jesus we pray. Amen.
May this journey of service deepen our relationship with Jesus and inspire us to follow in his footsteps, serving others with joy and love.
