https://odb.org/2024/11/09/serving-with-love
1 Peter 4: 7-10 NIV – 7 The end of all things is near. Therefore be alert and of sober mindf so that you may pray. 8 Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. 9 Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. 10 Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithfull stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.
One of the fundamental aspects of our faith besides faith itself (pardon the pun) is service. As believers, our mission in life once we come to faith is to serve God in whatever capacity we can, whether in church, at work, or wherever we are. Our lives are an extension of the Kingdom. We must be Kingdom-minded and all that we do, we do it for, and so that it advances the Kingdom. We are a reflection of Christ, the glory of God. We must be at our best behaviour all the time. Even if no one sees, God sees. Wherever we are, in our small corner of the world, we are the Kingdom of God.
When it comes to Kingdom service, there are a variety of ways we can help out. Coming to church itself (as opposed to tuning in from home and watching the service like a spectator sport) is a form of service as by turning up, we encourage others to also do so. There is strength in numbers, and there is also community in congregating. In church, if we are cheerful and pleasant, we encourage others to come to church, not only for the service but also for the fellowship. We can and should be a source of encouragement and even inspiration for others to turn up on Sunday morning.
Going deeper, we may serve in specific ministries. In hospitality, in music, in ushering, in missions, etc. We could also support the church or missions or even specific individuals with our finances. We earn in the world and use our earnings for Kingdom purposes for the expansion of the Kingdom. We sow into the Kingdom with our money, little it may be.
A key point in service is our own God-given talents and gifts, spiritual or natural. We can make an effort to develop and hone our skills, especially if we are musicians. But it’s best to start from wherever we are with what we already have and grow along as we serve God. Whatever talents we have, use them first. It is not the talents that matter but our service. Use whatever God-given talents for the Kingdom of God!
Have a good weekend! Prepare ourselves today for tomorrow’s service. Start by coming to church in person, physically, and move away from the virtual. Go out and meet air-breathing flesh and blood and serve God by just interacting and encouraging others!
Ronnie's Thoughts 