March 20, 2019
“For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” – Mark 10:45
Americans are expert consumers. We are masters at finding the thing that will most perfectly meet our need or want, and then we acquire it at the very lowest price possible. As a result of this, or maybe as the catalyst for this, our companies and organizations have become very adept at providing the very best product possible. Unfortunately, this system has affected the American church, leading to the prominence of “church shopping.” We look for the church with the best fit and finish; the one that has everything going for it. We then get involved by seeking out a ministry or program that is a tremendous success and we jump on board. This makes perfect sense in American Christianity…but not in the Kingdom of God.
I would encourage anyone who is currently in a church that is not “performing” to their standards to ask themselves what area of the church they believe is so desperately lacking…and then work to fix it. Bill Hybels speaks of our “holy discontent.” His idea is this; whatever it is in the world that most upsets, frustrates, or angers you is probably the place God wants to use you to make an impact. I think this same idea can be applied to the local church. What ministry is lacking at your church? Do you think your church does a poor job of being involved in the community, ministering to children, reaching young adults, or supporting international missions? Then maybe God has placed you there to change that. Instead of criticizing your church or leaving it for a “better” church, maybe you could work to make your church a better church. Thankfully, Jesus Christ did not show up to see which of us could best meet his needs. He showed up to serve and sacrifice for us. I think all of our churches would be a lot more healthy and effective if we showed up with the same mindset.
Father, forgive us for the mindset of one who needs to be served. Let us follow the example of Jesus Christ; resolving to sacrifice and serve in order to strengthen our Christian family and shine Your light into our dark world.
In Christ’s Service,
Pastor Shane
