Christian Service

SERVING OTHERS

CHERRY M. STOLTZ © 2007


Am I To Be A Suffering Servant Too?

Am I really called to be like Christ?
Am I called to lay down my life for my brother?
Am I to love my neighbour as I love myself?
Is this possible?

Yes, my child . . .

But, Lord, who is my neighbour?

Is he the one next door who gets under my skin,
and reminds me least of You?
The one who is constantly complaining and abrasive?
The thorn in my side?

Or the one I married?
My other half who demands my attention but forgets to say “Thank you”?
The one who has learned, erroneously,
that familiarity breeds contempt?

Is he my colleague?
Can it be the person who climbed over me to get to the top?
The one who took the credit for my work?
My nemesis?

Is he the filthy beggar outside the supermarket this morning.
The one whom shoppers went out of their way to avoid?
Is it he?
Must it be him?

Yes, my child – and more.

Is washing feet so much deeper a service than I have presumed?
Is it getting down to a level
where they are higher than me?
Is it choosing to lay my self aside so others can be attended to?

Is it remembering Your last meal
and being so incredibly grateful for what you did for me
that I cannot help
but share that same love?

Is it being more concerned about their fears and sorrows and hardships than mine
even when I am heart-broken?
Is it a driving compassion and empathy that makes me
fade into the background?

Is holy service something that comes from spending time alone with You?
From trusting You to give me all I need
to do Your will on earth?
From leaning on Your grace and strength and guidance?

Is all of it found in YOU, Lord?

YES, my child!
No more – and no less.