The word “service” is often thrown around with positive connotations, but what does this word really mean? Does it mean marking off every Saturday for an organized service project? These projects are so needful and beautiful, but servant-heartedness encompasses more. What is service?
Constant. Service is more than time set aside to volunteer at your local soup kitchen or clothing drive. Service is how you interact with every person you encounter. It is smiling at the stranger next to you on the street and intentionally listening to those around you.
Practical. Serving at all times makes sense! When you get in the habit of constantly serving, it becomes second-nature. Serving each other brings the kingdom of God here on earth. It is a practical way to live out the Gospel in every moment. There is no reason NOT to strive for this.
Life-changing. I am sure many of us have experienced a bad day until someone smiled at us or offered a small act of kindness. Think about how many days can be brightened if you live your life to serve! This does not only change others’ lives, but it also changes your own. You increase in producing the fruits of the spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.
Love. 1 Corinthians 13: 4-5 states that, “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.” Service embodies these same qualities. When you are patient, kind, happy for others, humble, respectful, selfless, calm, and forgiving, you are serving others.
We have all been given many talents to serve God and our neighbors. Using these does not always have to involve multitudes of money or time. Let’s bring the Kingdom of God here and now by serving in every moment.
-Anna Spencer
Anna is a YES leader who just graduated from Kansas State University, is applying to Physician Assistant school, and is passionate about public health.
