In the Chaos, Continue to Serve
John 13:3-5 (ESV) Jesus, knowing that the Father had given all things into his hands, and that he had come from God and was going back to God, 4 rose from supper. He laid aside his outer garments, and taking a towel, tied it around his waist. 5 Then he poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples' feet and to wipe them with the towel that was wrapped around him.
Jesus knew where He had come from and where He was going. Knowing this is what led Him to grab a towel and begin to wash the feet of His disciples. It's in this revelation that I see a key to serving. Knowing where you were and where God brought you from produces humility and love, which are essential for serving others. And when you know where you're going, fully confident that when you die you will be with Jesus, you are free from fear and able to serve others--holding nothing back.
In the crazy days we are currently living in, it would be easy to stop thinking of others, instead only thinking of ourselves and the loved ones around us. But this posture is in exact opposition to how Jesus lived and the lifestyle of a Christian. In reality, when everyone is hiding, the church steps up. When everyone looks out for themselves, the church looks out for others. When darkness is sweeping over the hearts and minds of people, the church turns on the light and brings hope! I'm not suggesting we all ignore these quarantines, but I am urging we still serve and love our community!
Where have you come from?
He who's been forgiven much, loves much (see Luke 7:47-48). When I realize this applies to me, no matter what my personal history is, it opens me up to love God and love others. It doesn't matter if I've committed the "big" sins (whatever that means)...we've all sinned. We've all messed up. We all deserve punishment for those sins, and we all need God's grace to save us from a deserved hell. When I know God loves me despite me, it allows me to love and serve others. God doesn't love us because we're worth loving…He loves us because that's who He is.
Where are you going?
No matter what life throws our way as believers, we have a hope that the world simply doesn't have. I know that when I die, I will see the Lord. All pain will cease; tears will be wiped away; there will be no more sin and no more suffering. This is the hope and confidence we have as followers of Jesus. It is impossible to threaten a Christian with death. Death is a fantastic upgrade! I obviously don't long for death, but I have zero fear regarding it. When you trust God with your future, you can take your eyes off helping yourself and onto helping others.
Here are some thoughts about what you can do, even in this circumstance, to help and serve others.
Be positive and faith-filled.
Philillipians 4:8 And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise.
Write, post, and share encouraging thoughts and scriptures.
Amid all the fear and negativity, spread God's word!
Consider shopping for the elderly who are more at-risk.
Donate blood.
There's a national blood shortage, and you can save lives by donating yours! See the American Red Cross for more info.
Support local businesses.
Buy gift cards, order food, etc.
Donate food and supplies to your local food pantry.
Support your local church.
Churches need your assistance to continue to help people during this time.
Be a friend.
What you wish someone would do for you--do for them.
Make more calls to loved ones and neighbors.
Be creative: think outside the box!
I'll leave you with these words from Jesus: "You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven." Matthew. 5:14-16 (ESV)