A Servant's Heart

Towards the end of every semester, without fail, passionate appeals are made, “Who wants to serve? Who can be leader of this ministry or that portfolio?"

Is the word ‘service’ becoming too much of a cliché? It would seem when everyone is talking about serving God or service, it’s inevitably linked to some ‘position’. Even the idea of 'servant leadership' sounds as if God called some of us to be leaders and it’s a progression from servant to leader.

The truth is that God calls ALL of us to be servants. Period. The biblical image is one of servant, not leader. While there is a place for leadership role but the fundamental identity of the believer is that of a servant.

Did you know that the Greek word for servant, ‘doulos’ can also be translated as slaves?

Turing the Power Scale Upside Down!

“I am among you as one who serves.” Luke 22:27

Jesus called them together and said, “You know that those who are regarded as rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be slave of all. For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” Mark 10:42-45

He has set the example. All who claims to follow Him must count the cost and carry this cross to follow Him. It is not about greatness, but servanthood. God calls us first as servants. This radical service to God and to each other is the mark of discipleship and a sign to the world that the Kingdom of God is here, among us…

Mother Teresa once said that we can do no great things, only small things with great love.

“Who wants to serve?” or perhaps more accurately “Who wants to be a servant?” Any takers?