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Writer's pictureMarlou Strydom

What Does It Mean To Serve | Serving Like Jesus!


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Serving is more than just a task or obligation; it’s a core part of living out our faith. In the Gospels, we see a vivid example of this in the life of Jesus, who is often referred to as the "Servant King." Though He had every right to be exalted and placed on a pedestal, Jesus consistently chose to humble Himself, serve others, and put their needs before His own. As followers of Jesus we are invited to follow in His footsteps and embrace a life of service.


When we think of service, we might think of acts like volunteering at a shelter, helping out at church, or giving to charity. While these are all important, serving goes much deeper. It’s a mindset, a way of living that shifts our focus away from self and toward the needs of others. This attitude is at the heart of what it means to be a follower of Christ.


Jesus is our example of service

One of the most powerful moments in the Bible that showcases Jesus' serving heart is found in John 13:1-17. During the Last Supper, knowing His time on earth was coming to an end, Jesus did something unexpected. He took off His outer garment, wrapped a towel around His waist, and began to wash His disciples’ feet. Foot washing in ancient times was considered one of the lowliest tasks—one reserved for servants, not teachers or leaders. Yet here was Jesus, their Rabbi and Lord, humbling Himself in this way.


After He had finished, Jesus said to His disciples, "Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you" (John 13:14-15). Jesus wasn’t just performing an act of service; He was teaching them (and us) a important lesson: true leadership and greatness come from serving others.


Jesus’ entire ministry was marked by this kind of humility and service. Whether it was healing the sick, feeding the hungry, or spending time with those society had rejected, Jesus consistently chose to serve, even when it was inconvenient or difficult. He never sought praise or recognition for His actions. Instead, His service was motivated by love—love for His Father and love for those around Him.


How We Can Serve Like Jesus?

As Christians, we are called to follow Jesus’ example. Serving others is not just something we do on occasion, but it should be a natural outflow of our faith. However, serving doesn’t always come easily. Sometimes it requires us to step outside our comfort zones, give up our time, or even lay down our own needs. But when we do, we reflect the heart of Jesus.


Here are some practical ways we can live out a life of service, following Jesus’ example:

  1. Serve with Humility

Just as Jesus did not see any task as beneath Him, we too are called to serve with humility. No act of service is too small or insignificant. Whether it’s helping a friend, doing chores at home, or volunteering in the community, every act of service matters. It’s not about the size of the task, but the heart behind it.


  1. Serve with Compassion

Jesus’ acts of service were always motivated by compassion. He saw the needs of those around Him and responded with love. In our fast-paced world, it’s easy to become consumed with our own problems and ignore the struggles of others. But serving like Jesus means slowing down, noticing those in need, and responding with kindness and care.


  1. Serve Without Expectation of Reward

Jesus served others without expecting anything in return. In a world that often measures success by recognition and rewards, this can be difficult. However, true service is selfless. It’s about giving, even when no one else notices, because we know that God sees and is pleased with our efforts.


  1. Serve Consistently

Jesus didn’t just serve when it was convenient or easy. He served consistently, even when it was hard, tiring, or inconvenient. For us, this might mean making service a regular part of our lives, not just something we do occasionally or when we feel like it. Whether it’s regularly volunteering, helping a neighbor, or just being available for those around us, service should be a way of life.


Serving and Spiritual Growth

What’s amazing about serving others is that it doesn’t just benefit those we serve—it also transforms us. As we serve, we grow in humility, patience, and love. Our hearts become more aligned with God’s heart. Serving stretches our faith and deepens our reliance on God, especially when we’re serving in ways that challenge us or push us outside our comfort zones.


Jesus taught that when we serve others, we are serving Him. In Matthew 25:35-40, He said, "For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in...whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me." Every time we serve someone else, we are honouring God, and He is pleased with our efforts, no matter how big or small they may seem.


How Can You Adopt a Heart of Serving?

As you reflect on Jesus' example, consider how you can incorporate a heart of service into your daily life. It doesn’t require grand gestures or heroic acts. Start small by looking around at the people in your life —family, friends, neighbours — and identifying their needs. Sometimes, service is as simple as offering a listening ear, helping someone with a task, or being present for someone who’s hurting.


Take some time to pray today and ask God to give you opportunities to serve, and the strength and humility to follow through. When we serve others, we are not only blessing them but also growing in our relationship with Christ. Jesus’ life was a life of service, and as His followers, we are called to do the same.

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