Serving Out of Rootedness
The evening meal was in progress, and the devil had already prompted Judas, the son of Simon Iscariot, to betray Jesus. Jesus knew that the Father had put all things under his power, and that he had come from God and was returning to God; so he got up from the meal, took off his outer clothing, and wrapped a towel around his waist. After that, he poured water into a basin and began to wash his disciples’ feet, drying them with the towel that was wrapped around him.
- John 13:2-5
During that original Holy Week, Jesus shows us what real service looks like by washing his friends’ feet. But did you notice what happened before he washed their feet? There was some KNOWING that went on.
Jesus knew that he was loved. Jesus knew he had authority. Jesus knew he belonged to God.
That means that his service did not come out of insecurity, people-pleasing, or duty. It came from deep within as an overflow of the rootedness of his own life.
Pause for a minute and seek to tap into your own rootedness in God’s love and power. Perhaps remind yourself a few times, “I belong. I am beloved.” And as you do this pay attention to any ideas that may arise of how to serve someone today. Does a name come to mind or a situation? Somewhere you could help or donate money? Check you motives as best as you can, and then get one with it and seek to serve someone else today out of your sense of being beloved.
Holy Week Events
Good Friday Service: Short 6pm casual service at Bill & Katy White’s home, 2490 Maine Ave Long Beach, followed by a potluck dinner. Bring a dish to share.
Neighborhood Easter Egg Hunt: 9:30am on Sunday in front of Lafayette. Feel free to bring some stuffed eggs by 9:15 if you’d like, or just bring some kids to enjoy the festivities!
Easter Breakfast: Bring baked good for a 10am light breakfast in front of Lafayette, and meet some neighbors.
Easter Worship Service: 10:30am (our regular time) we’ll celebrate the resurrection of Jesus together at Lafayette Elementary School Auditorium. Invite a friend if you’d like.