Serving others comes in many forms. When we accept others, give them space, challenge negative perceptions and operate in forgiveness we demonstrate the servant heart of Jesus.
“Then he turned toward the woman and said to Simon, “Do you see this woman? I came into your house. You did not give me any water for my feet, but she wet my feet with her tears and wiped them with her hair.”
Jesus of Nazareth, Gospel according to Luke, 7:44
True service is focused on the needs of the other, and not on our personal con- victions and opinions.
True service seeks a future and a perspective for our fellow humans.
True service places our own needs on the back burner.
But remember! You don ́t need to save the world; Jesus has already done that.
REFLECTION POINTS
Where are you currently challenged to serve your fellow human?
Is it easier for you to help people or to serve them? What is the difference, for you?
How do you recognise yourself in the woman and in the host?
What can help you to focus on the needs of the other person in the future?
How can you include Jesus in your actions?
PRAYER OF BLESSING
Jesus, you know us and our hearts.
We thank you because you don ́t leave us alone, but instead meet us in different ways.
You don ́t judge. You give new perspectives and look into our hearts in a way that no one else can.
We pray that you change our hearts.
Let us serve our fellow man in such a way, that their needs are fulfilled, that they experience acceptance and appreciation, and that they get to know you as their God.
We pray for the people around us who are excluded. Help us build connections and bridges.
We pray for possibilities, that people have genuine and freeing experiences with you.
Give us a change of heart, so that we love you, God, with our hearts, and love our neighbour as ourselves.
Through you we have hope and confidence for this world and the next.
Help us become people of service, who love you and who change the world for the better.
Glory to you, O Lord. Amen.
Please share any thoughts, insights or recorded actions that come as a result of today’s devotions on social media using the hashtag: #WWOP21
Team: Tobias Nestler, Germany; Javier Delgado, Columbia; Jannis Bauder, Germany; Wendy Ramirez, Columbia; Daniil Tritonaov, Russia.
If you are on Instagram, I highly recommend you follow @ymcairelandchaplaincy – they post inspiring content and are participating in the World Week of Prayer with daily posts and videos.
