For a few weeks, we’ll take a look at scriptures related to the Building Blocks, which are spiritual practices we can adapt and use to “practice the presence of Christ.” Read more info about the blocks, or download the 2011 Soul Care Plan. Today’s Block is “S”, for service.
Today’s scripture: John 13:3-5, 12-17 (NIV) (The Message) (KJV) What might God be saying to me?
My thoughts (Keith Phillips):
Nowhere in the Gospels is it recorded that Jesus said to another human being, “I love you.” Certainly, it’s clearly stated that Jesus loved Lazarus, and that Jesus looked with love at the rich young ruler, and, of course, there’s that mysterious relationship with “the disciple whom Jesus loved.” In all the red words of my favorite New Testament, “I love you” is not found. How odd!
It reminds me of the elderly Vermont couple sitting on the porch swing one evening. One of them turns to his husband and says, “Life with you is so wonderful that sometimes it takes everything within me to keep from telling you how much I love you!”
If Jesus didn’t tell those around him that he loved them, as far as we know, how do we know that he loved them? How do we know that he loves us? By his acts of service! In this passage of scripture, Jesus tells those with him, “I love you,” by kneeling down in front of them and washing their feet.
Some time ago, Pastor Jeff preached a series of sermons based on Gary Chapman’s book, The Five Love Languages. According to Chapman, the five ways in which we express love are: words of affirmation, gifts, acts of service, quality time, and physical touch. In a very real way all are acts of service. Indeed, love is made concrete in acts of service, giving my words, my things, my energy, my time, my self to another. Service is the proof of love.
Our culture has conditioned us into thinking that we are loving when in fact we are very selfish. At work we more prone to speak critical words to and about our colleagues than affirming. We like to think of ourselves as generous, but give only a slight portion of the tithe to the Lord. We refuse to get on our knees in front of anyone, acting as their servant. Our time is our own. And except for the huggers, we find it awkward to touch those who really need our physical contact.
One of the things I like about Jesus is that he washed his disciples’ feet “knowing that the Father had given all things into his hands, and that he had come from God and was going to God” (verse 3). Since I was created in the image of God, I am most like what I was created to be when I am like Jesus, when I am kneeling in front of others, serving them.
Thought for the day: “If you know these things, you are blessed if you do them” (verse 17).
We encourage you to include a time of prayer with this reading. If you need a place to get started, consider the guidelines on the How to Pray page.