Significant Service!

Perhaps we would consider "significant service" as that which is able to make the biggest difference in the lives of others. However, Jesus even noted the significance of giving a cup of cold water as having its reward. ( Matthew 10:42) Though we might consider that a small thing, it is significant to the thirsty on a hot day. Have we not thanked another who offered us something to drink on a hot day and genuinely appreciated it?

Then on the other hand, maybe we would consider "significant service" as that which is offered to someone of great significance. Martha's focus on preparing a meal when Jesus was a guest in her home appears to have been something very significant; so much so that she felt her sister Mary should have been helping. ( Luke 10:38-40) Would we not have been thrilled to have been extending such hospitality to Jesus?

In one of Jesus' parables focusing on final judgment -- where He noted the separation of the sheep and the goats -- our Lord's focus was on the significance of practical service. In that parable He addressed those who did offer it ( Matthew 25:34-40) and those who did not. ( Matthew 25:41-46) Following the listing of being hungry, thirsty, being a stranger, in need of clothing, being sick, and being in prison and then noting those needs being met (or not met as the case might be) Jesus stated. . .

"(40) And the King will answer them, 'Truly, I say to you, as you did it TO ONE OF THE LEAST OF THESE MY BROTHERS, you did it to me.'" ( Matthew 25:40 ESV)

And . . .

"(45) 'Truly, I say to you, as you did not do it TO ONE OF THE LEAST OF THESE, you did not do it to me.'" ( Matthew 25:45 ESV)

Jesus did not refer to any of it as having been done for a "prestigious" brother. Nor did He refer to it being done for a "deserving" brother. Neither did He refer to it being done for one who was most Christ-like themselves. Rather "as you did it to ONE OF THE LEAST of these my brothers", Jesus said it is as done to Him. That means whoever is EVEN THE LEAST (and I would caution us regarding the making of such judgment) is significant to be served and that service is significant when it is done as if we were SERVING CHRIST HIMSELF.

Wow! That ought to empower the manner in which we serve! Could it be that the importance is not so much on what kind of service is being offered or who the recipient is, but instead based on the ATTITUDE AND WILLINGNESS with which we serve as the opportunities arise regardless of who it might be? As we strive to grow spiritually let us not forget the significance of practical service. Religion is not merely ritual, but practical in how it is to be lived out. In this sense we will also become more Christ-like ourselves.

Have a great day BEING A SERVING SHEEP!
Carl

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