Chotard Doll

Dear Friends,

The disciples are fretting about who will be the greatest among them.

But Jesus reminds them that he turns our human standards upside down.

Jesus replies to his disciples, “I am among you as one who serves.” (Luke 22: 27b)

It is quite possible to read these words of Jesus and rationalize them. After all, we do SERVE others: family, friends, those we work for and with. But really, isn’t that cheating?

Because Jesus goes on to identify himself as the one who serves the table…the lowest server in a household. And he is the one who washes the feet of the disciples and heals the sick. To say nothing of giving his life for us.

There are indeed some services that should be rewarded, by recognition at the least. But often service in a God-like manner is silent. It draws no attention to itself. It doesn’t brag or boast. It is offered in love and genuine concern for the one served. And maybe only God will notice.

But as the hymn reminds us:

..nothing can be so mean
which with this tincture “for Thy sake”
will not grow bright and clean. (Hymn 592 v2)

Faithfully,

—Chotard