Christ's Serving Heart: Advent Day Ten 10/12/24
Day Ten, hello and welcome! Today, let us reflect on how we can lean into Jesus's serving heart.
In our modern world, where personal achievement and constant productivity often take centre stage, we're embracing a transformative practice that lies at the heart of our Christian faith: serving others during Advent. This sacred season invites us to slow down and reflect on Christ's profound example - He who embodied perfect humility by entering our world not with grandeur and power, but with gentle servitude. This beautiful paradox reminds us that true greatness lies not in what we accomplish for ourselves, but in how we love and serve others. Just as Jesus washed His disciples' feet and ministered to the marginalised, we're called to set aside our busy schedules and self-focused tendencies to notice, care for, and uplift those around us.
Understanding Our Starting Point
Serving isn't just about helping those we already love. Jesus teaches us that this extends to our neighbours who are strangers when He says "Love one another as I have loved you" (John 13:34). In my own life, this calling appears in unexpected ways—when I worked as a barista, I saw this as a daily opportunity to serve Christ by showing His love to others. Making coffee became a ministry of presence - I ensured every customer felt valued and cared for, just as Jesus would. For some customers, their daily coffee run was their only social interaction, so embodying Christ's compassion by truly seeing and hearing them became my way of serving.
During my time as a barista, I strived to practise St. Thérèse of Lisieux's "Little Way"—her beautiful teaching that everyday tasks performed with exceptional love become sacred offerings. I approached each coffee preparation as a mindful act of service, taking care with presentation, learning customers' names, and sharing genuine warmth.
This Advent season reminds us that every moment presents an opportunity for service. Just as I found meaning in those seemingly mundane moments behind the counter, I recognise chances to serve others through simple acts—offering words of encouragement to a colleague, listening with genuine attention to the young people I work with, or sharing a moment of kindness with a stranger. Through these simple acts, I continually gain deeper insight into Christ's servant heart. When we focus on serving others—even in seemingly small ways—we draw closer to Him, and our own hearts are transformed.
Making It Real: Practical Steps
Here are some practical ways to do "small things with great love" - Mother Teresa:
- Pay it forward by treating the person behind you at your local coffee shop to their morning drink, adding a cheerful "Have a lovely day!"
- Write a heartfelt note to someone who made a difference in your life, expressing how their influence continues to shape you
- Leave a box of biscuits and a kind note for your postman during this busy Christmas season
- Give someone your undivided attention—put away your phone and truly listen to what they're sharing
- Share your expertise by teaching someone a skill you've mastered, whether it's baking, DIY, or technology
- Offer to help a younger sibling or cousin with their homework, showing patience and encouragement as they learn
Today's Reflection
Today let's reflect:
- How do my daily choices reflect Christ's servant heart?
- What prevents me from serving others more freely?
- Where in my life might I create more space for spontaneous acts of kindness?
Finding Your Own Path
Remember, serving others isn't about mimicking someone else's journey. Your way of serving might look different from others, and that's beautiful. Perhaps you excel at listening, cooking, or mending things – use your unique gifts to serve in your own way.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, help me to see You in everyone I meet today. Grant me the courage to step outside my comfort zone and serve others as You served. Let my small acts of kindness reflect Your great love. Guide me to be Your hands and feet in this busy world. Amen.
Your Personal Invitation
Today, challenge yourself to perform one unexpected act of kindness. Don't plan it – simply remain alert to the opportunities that arise and act on them with love.
God bless,
Mel
