Learning to Serve

"I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me." Matthew 25:40

When I was just out of college, I found a summer job working as an aide at a school for those with intellectual disabilities. This proved to be hard and sometimes thankless work, but it wasn’t without its rewards. In this place, I learned a little of what it means to love those that are less fortunate. I remember one boy, who couldn’t verbally communicate, but who still had an enormous sense of humor. When he was on the bus or in the classroom, he would fix his eyes on someone and then imitate their posture and body movements. Once he had accomplished this, he would burst out laughing. And once I discovered what he was doing, I joined in the laughter.

Many times individuals with these kinds of disabilities are capable of great love. I know a young man with Down’s syndrome. He is a Christian and his brother is a minister of the gospel. This young man delights in hugging people. His love is sincere and contagious. I believe his hugging heals hearts.

Jesus said that we are to become like little children. Scripture also says that God uses the weak things of this world to confound the wise. We can choose to serve those that are less fortunate than us – whether intellectually, emotionally, or economically. We can also learn from them. Let’s keep an open heart to those around us that need God’s love. Let’s be careful not to treat them with disdain. Remember, Jesus left His throne of glory to come and live among us. Then He did the unthinkable: He humbled Himself and became obedient to death – even death on a cross (See Philippians 2:8). We can learn to serve others as Christ has served us.

Dear Lord,

Forgive me for sometimes judging those that are less fortunate than I am. Help me to treat them the way that You treat me. Help me to love them with Your love. In Jesus name I pray, amen.