Tag: service

Laboring for the King

Paul, a servant of Christ Jesus, called to be an apostle, set apart for the gospel of God
Romans 1:1 (ESV)

Any menial task, when given by the king of heaven, becomes a heavenly trust.

Paul opens his most significant letter with a most insignificant title: servant. In any circumstance, most of us would be hesitant to proudly proclaim such a title. It is of the humblest of positions. The lowliest of all posts. To be the servant is to have the least agency, the least freedom, the least opportunity for creativity, the least honor, the least recognition, the least chance of promotion, the least, the least, the least.

It is curious, that in a society such as Rome, a society that placed such value on position and honor, that Paul would begin his letter by taking on a title of shame. He is immediately subverting the cultural mores.

Why? Because for Paul, to be a servant of Christ Jesus supersedes any earthly title or post. Later, he makes it explicit: “I am not ashamed of the Gospel,” he says (Romans 1:16). In Paul’s mind, even the lowest place in Christ’s kingdom eclipses the highest throne on earth (compare to Psalm 84:10).

What are your tasks today? What is your obligation? Whatever your job, Jesus calls you not to just do it on behalf of you or your organization, but to do it on behalf of his kingdom. In any and every position, our ultimate work is to be done unto the Lord and in his service. To do it with excellence and to do it for his glory (Colossians 3:23).

This trust is a sweet gift in a world of tiring toil. Our labor is not for ourselves, but for the King. What could be better than that?

Your Attitude is Your Witness

Do all things without grumbling or disputing, that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world

Philippians 2:14-15

It’s a shame that the American church is not regularly regarded as those who never grumble or dispute. Perhaps that might be true elsewhere, but it isn’t here.

The command to never never grumble and fight is based on a Christian mentality––literally the same mind as Christ himself which is explained to be found in his humility, lowliness, and willingness to consider others before himself (vv. 2-11).

One of the lies about happiness is that you will find it in “self care” and essentially pursuing selfish activities. While the meaning of these activities certainly varies, the scriptures frame the true source of happiness in a radically different direction: outward service and selflessness. This is where the joy of Christ emanates from the service of Christ, like warmth glowing from firelight.

The inner joy found from living in and with Christ in his service is simply attractive. Those without it will find it freeing, illuminating, transforming.

Find your joy in living as Jesus, and let your attitude be your witness to a world thirsting for genuine contentment. After all, he is calling you.