This week, our thoughts are on what we can do for Jesus. We have looked at representing Christ by living in such a way that others see Him living in us. We have looked at defending Christ in a world filled with hostility toward Him and His Word. Tonight, let us take a few minutes thinking about serving Jesus.

We should all be servants of Christ. There are many opportunities to serve in the church, but it all begins with realizing that we have been called, not to sit, but to serve. We have been chosen, not to be served by others, but to serve other people. Jesus put it like this:

Mark 10:45 (ESV)
⁴⁵ For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”

If Jesus came to serve, is that not what we should be doing? After all, “A disciple is not above his teacher, but everyone, when he is fully trained, will be like his teacher” (Luke 6:40). Those words come from Jesus Himself.

Our service must begin with serving Christ. He is our Master and we should treat Him as such. His commands are not optional. Servants do not question the reasonableness of their master’s commands or debate the soundness of them, nor do they decide to obey them only if they are liked. No, servants simply follow instructions because they know that there are dire consequences for not doing so.

Should not our attitude be the same? Indeed, if we do not obey our Master, the consequences will be severe. Our choice to obey Christ, however, should not be based primarily on the fear of punishment. Love should be what moves us to obey Christ, and the truth is, if we love Him, there will be no doubt about our obedience.

John 14:15 (ESV)
¹⁵ “If you love me, you will keep my commandments.

Make sure that you are a good servant of Christ, keeping all His commands, regardless of what the command might be or whether or not you like it. Furthermore, let us remember that a big part of serving Christ, is serving others. In the kingdom of God, serving one another is the foundation of greatness.

Mark 10:43 (ESV)
⁴³ But it shall not be so among you. But whoever would be great among you must be your servant,

While we are servants of Christ, we have been set free from Satan and sin. Let us use our freedom in Christ wisely. Paul tells us how to do that.

Galatians 5:13 (ESV)
¹³ For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.

As you wind down for the night, think about these things.