Jesus’ Love At WorkSample

To Love is to Serve at Work

We remember from 1 Corinthians 13 that love is not self-seeking and it does not envy. James and John were seeking to gain status for themselves when they asked to sit at Jesus’ right and left in glory. The other disciples were indignant, and with good reason; James and John were selfish. The angry disciples probably also imagined how envious they would have been had Jesus granted the request. Neither type of thinking comes from a loving place.

Jesus turned this argument into a teaching moment about the ways in which we need to love our coworkers. Jesus encouraged his disciples to reframe their ambition toward service. Jesus redefined greatness in the context of focusing on others, and being committed to serving. Jesus is Lord and one with God. Yet his work was all about serving others. He washed his disciples’ feet. He went out of his way to heal those who were ill. And ultimately, Jesus paid the price for our debt by laying down his life.

The world teaches us to get ahead by looking out for ourselves – our position, our status, our goals. As followers of Christ, those of us who would be great must serve others and think of ourselves last. Love is not motivated by its own interests. Jesus teaches us that we need to get ourselves off of our minds and be intentional about serving others. The world’s way may bring short-term success, but Christ’s way has eternal rewards. Ultimately, when you serve others with love, you contribute to a more productive workplace and bring God glory.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, help me to be aware of opportunities to serve others at work. Work in my heart and transform my desire to be great into a passion to help others succeed. May You get all the glory in the eyes of those who witness my service. I ask this in the name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Exploration

We hope this plan encouraged you. Find more plans from the Theology of Work Project and Work Matters at www.theologyofwork.org/resources/view-all/devotions-by-workmatters