Authentic ServingSample

Just Do Your Job

We are learning about developing the discipline of serving. One of the most important things to consider is our motive for why we serve. We must see our service as our obligation to Jesus Christ. Read Luke 17:9-10. Do you see the word duty? Duty means obligation, or what can be reasonably expected. Jesus is saying in effect here, when you serve, all you are doing is your duty. No extra credit in sight, whatever we do.

Our church did something wonderful for Kathy and me a few years ago. I had my 50th birthday, and on a Saturday night, they had a big party. People said some very kind things about our ministry. My kids got up and spoke. I was blown away by the whole thing. We felt so loved!

But honestly, it was a little uncomfortable. So after everybody spoke, they wanted me to get up and say something. I didn’t even know what to say, so I read Luke 17:10.

You may already do so much for the Lord. Don’t ever let yourself develop the idea you’re some kind of elite Christian because you serve. You’re doing your job. Don’t let yourself develop the expectation, People need to acknowledge me. People need to appreciate me. I do a lot. You are doing your duty! That’s all you’re doing. You’re just performing your job.

Now I’m going to make this just as focused as I can make it. Here it is: You are commanded to serve. Commanded. And if I could be a messenger on behalf of Jesus Christ, He commands you to serve. Don’t pray about it. Don’t be thinking, Well, sometimes we serve in the summer. What?! This is your 24/7/365 card-carrying-follower-of-Jesus-Christ-member-of-the-family-of-God-duty. Duty! All right? Find a job. Roll up your sleeves and serve!

Prayer – Father, I want to see my service to You as just what my life as a Christian is to be. But sadly, I look for selfish rewards when I serve. Please forgive me, Lord. Help me to desire to serve authentically, out of obedience to You and my love and passion for You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.