Today’s Readings:
2 Corinthians 4:7-15
Psalm 126:1-6
Matthew 20:20-28
"We are consigned to our death, every day, for the sake of Jesus, so that in our mortal flesh the life of Jesus may be openly shown." (2 Corinthians 4:11)
Do you want to be great? Do you want to be first? The thing to do is to serve. Do you want to occupy a place of importance in the kingdom of God? Do you want to shine like the stars for all eternity? The way to attain it is humility, humility and humility. This is what James the Apostle had to learn when he and his brother approached Jesus through their mother. They wanted VIP seats at Jesus’ left and right hand in his kingdom. Jesus told them that they did not know what they were asking. The reason is because the very first sin ever committed is pride which led to disobedience, selfishness and rebellion against God’s desire for mankind. Sometimes, we think we know God’s plan for us because it will give us pleasure. Whatever gives God joy is what will give us joy. Whatever serves the divine agenda (for God to be known and loved) is what will make us prominent, fulfilled and happy.
Often, we lose our hope of divine happiness by seeking to do things by ourselves and for ourselves alone. Our desire to ‘blow’, our desire for praise, admiration, accolades and recognition from the world is often laced with selfishness. The more worldly renown we get, the less satisfied we become because nothing in this world will ever satisfy us. The only way to truly be satisfied in this world and hope for eternal happiness is when we use the gifts that God has given to us to serve others.
This is because:
We are the vessels of clay that hold the gifts which God has poured into us.
The gifts and talents that are making your head swell belong to God.
To use your God-given talents and gifts for yourself alone is selfish and myopic.
When you place your gifts at the service of God to inspire and lead others to salvation, you will be truly happy.
Greatness is found in service.
JUDE-MARY OWOH
To surrender your life to Christ, say this prayer aloud. “Father, I acknowledge my sin against You. I repent and ask for forgiveness, in the name of Jesus. I surrender to the Lordship of Jesus. By the power of Your Holy Spirit, take control of my heart and lead me in Your path of righteousness. Thank you, Lord.”
If you said the prayer, Congratulations! Prayerfully look for a living church and report to the resident reverend, pastor or priest.
Prayer:
Lord, help me to use my gifts to serve others.
Lord, renew my strength to keep serving others with my gifts.
Lord, accept my service today as a sacrifice and crown it with glory.
Lord, may Your favour attend all my activities today.
Lord, prosper my work and watch over me always.
Lord, grant me safety as I step out and return each day.
Lord, grant me health of mind and body so that I may serve you wholeheartedly.
Lord, shield me from the Devil and his agents who seek to derail me from to my destruction.
Lord, shield me from persons who are filled with malice and jealousy.
Lord, open doors of opportunities and platforms of service to me. Amen.
Lord, reveal your glory in me and make me your willing vessel and servant daily. Amen
Comments