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I watched as my niece gently removed her grandmother's shoes. She then collected a pan of warm water and placed it along with clippers, brush, soap, and lotion by her grandmother's feet. She proceeded to wash her feet as she smiled and visited with us. I marveled at this girl's wisdom, at such a young age, of serving others. It came natural for her, not giving any thought to the job. It was a labor of love.

Philippians 2:3-4 " Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility regard others as better than yourselves. Let each of you look not to your own interests, but to the interests of others." NRSV

Servants think more of serving others than about themselves. They have learned to focus on others, thus showing true humility. This is what the scriptures mean by "Lose your life."

Too often a lot or our service is self-serving. What can you do for me attitudes. Or, we serve to be admired, or to achieve our own goals. You scratch my back; I'll scratch yours. Then there are those of us who try to make a deal with God. "I'll do what you ask Lord, if you'll do this for me." That's manipulation, not servant-hood.

A true servant of God knows who he is in Christ; therefore, he has no need to prove his worth. A true servant loves the Lord, and has a desire to please him only. In knowing your identity in Christ, you are free to show compassion to others. If you're insecure, you'll expect others to serve you.

Jesus emptied himself by taking on the form of a servant. He willingly gave up everything to come to earth, live as a man, and serve. That's humility.

The closer our relationship with Jesus Christ, the less we need to promote ourselves. God will do the promoting. We are to serve with joy and gladness. Serving is a ministry and a wonderful opportunity to allow others to see Christ's love for them and the desire to meet their needs.

Copyright 2003 by Marie Williams