The Transforming Power of Service at WorkSample

Service – A catalyst of unifying love.

I am convinced that if Christians around the world could just sit in Philippians 2 regularly, we would be personally transformed, the church would be unified, and the world would be changed. That may sound idealistic and naïve, but I sincerely believe it.

In Philippians 2, Paul beautifully lays out the collaborative nature of this relationship that we have with God.

• First, he calls us to make some commitments: find agreement with one another, be humble, guard your heart from selfishness and conceit, consider others' interests above your own, have the same mindset as Christ, and continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling. This is a beautiful description of a life of service.
• Then Paul assures us of God’s part: “for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose” (v 2:13 NIV). Ultimately, it is God’s activity that transforms us, unifies the church, and changes the world. We don’t carry the weight of responsibility, but He invites us to participate in the process.

The other thing we take from Philippians 2 is that there is a big difference between doing acts of service and becoming a servant. Jesus, “Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage; rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness” (vv 2:6-7 NIV). Acting on what the last two devotions in this plan outlined is an important step. But to stop at doing and miss becoming would fall short of truly following Jesus.

The early church embraced the way of Jesus and stooped to meet the needs around them. Their explosive growth and influence did not come from marketing, elaborate programs, or spectacular worship gatherings (none of the things we rely on today). Imagine it: this relatively small group of outsiders became a threat to the idolatry and power of the mighty Roman Empire because of the love, unity, and service they extended to others.

Take a moment to prayerfully consider:

• What could happen if you and the people you worship with were committed to showing up and meeting the practical needs of your community?
• What bridges could be built by stooping to serve others without any expectation of receiving anything in return?
• How might the gospel take root in surprising places if ‘in humility you value others above yourselves?
• Where in the course of your ordinary week could you offer a cup of cold water in Jesus’ name?

Close in Prayer