Burning Question:
What was one small act of service that impacted you deeply?
Morning Devotional:
A couple of days ago, some friends of mine and I were talking about the recent Kentucky Derby. It has been a long time since I have watched a horse race, but you can imagine the scene. Beautiful, powerful horses thundering around the track, their riders trying to get that crucial edge over the other riders. You can obviously tell where the phrase, “jockeying for position” came from, right?
After our conversation, I thought about how easily that same action and mentality can creep into our walk with God. At times we want to be seen as the most dedicated, the most spiritual, the one doing the most impressive things for the Lord. It’s like we’re running the race in a way that makes sure our service to Him gets noticed.
The attitude is very much like the story in Matthew 20 about James and John. The two disciples came to Jesus with their mom asking for prime real estate in His kingdom – one to sit on His right and the other on His left. But Jesus redirected their focus and pointed out that their desire for position and glory was missing the point. True greatness in God’s kingdom, according to Jesus, isn’t about who gets the best seat. it’s about a willingness to serve and even sacrifice themselves for others, just as He did.
Do we serve God because we genuinely love Him and want to honor Him? Or do we “jockey for position,” hoping for some kind of spiritual trophy? The Kentucky Derby can be exciting but the Christian life isn’t about winning a worldly race. It’s about running with a heart of love and service, following the lead of our savior, Jesus Christ.
– Beth
Bible Quiz:
Question: What king embarrassed his wife by dancing in the streets?
Answer: David (2 Samuel 6:16)
Storytime: Oh you don’t want to go that way!