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Expressing Gratitude Through Service

“… Take tender care of those who are weak and be patient with everyone. See that no one pays back evil for evil, but always try to do good to each other and to everyone else. Always be joyful. Always keep on praying. No matter what happens, always be thankful, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.”¹

One of the things I enjoy most is when fellow Christians get together to serve others. Over the years I have had the privilege of participating in a variety of service projects, and while the goal is to bless others, I also come out blessed! The laughter of children as we play, the looks of gratitude for a much-needed meal, the tears that flow because you share someone’s burden, observing the sense of relief as you help fulfill a financial need… these are just examples of why I am thankful for these opportunities and why they bring me great joy. If I feel like this, I can only imagine how God feels watching His children work together in unity to share His love with others through service!

While service projects are an amazing way to serve others, we are called to live this life of service with anyone and everyone. Whether it be our spouse, children, neighbors, church family, etc., we should always seek to do good to each other, even to those with whom we deeply disagree. This may be a challenge at times, which must be why Paul reminds us to remember that we are rooted in Christ. When we remember the sacrificial love and unconditional grace, He has given us, our gratitude should overflow. And what a better way to express our gratitude than to be a witness of Christ’s saving love to the world.

Suggested prayer: Dear God, thank you for the many opportunities you give me to serve others on a daily basis. I pray that you fill me with your grace and compassion to see others how you see them. May my actions be a testimony of who you are and your great love. Thank you for Jesus, in whom I can find salvation, joy, and the perfect example of selfless service. Help me live like Him. Thank you for hearing and answering my prayer. In Jesus’ name, amen.

 

1. 1 Thessalonians 5:14-18 (TLB).