“For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” Mark 10:45 (ESV) What an overwhelming truth that Jesus, the Son of God, left His heavenly royal throne, and putting on human flesh, came to earth not to rule and reign, but to serve.
Philippians 2:6-7 says, “though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant.” (ESV) Wow!
Here’s my question for you: What should we do with this truth besides marvel at it?
God’s Word answers that question in Ephesians 5:1-2, which says, “Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children. And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.” (ESV) Jesus set the example of accomplishing the work His Father called Him to do through serving. And, we’re called to do the same. We are to be imitators of God. So, let’s make this personal. Let’s take a hard look at the ministry God’s placed us in.
As musicians, we are to minister to the Body of Christ as singing servants. But how often do we have that heart attitude? I have to confess that there are times when I go to church with the attitude of wanting others to cater to my wishes and serve me. Oh my, doesn’t that sound awful?
So how, as musicians, can we follow Jesus’ example and serve in our local church? I believe it all begins with a heart attitude. As we sing, we sing with the attitude of humbly serving the Body with the talents and gifts God has given. No “musical diva” attitude allowed!
With a servant’s heart, humbly look for ways to serve. You probably aren’t scheduled to sing the special music in your church every Sunday. On the Sundays that you aren’t, look for other opportunities to serve. Offer to work with children by serving in Children’s Church and lead them in praise songs. Or, how about assisting with the children’s choir? Offer to help with the music for the youth group. Or, get a group together, work on some music, and go to a retirement home to sing to the residents.
Follow the example of Jesus, and instead of looking for others to serve you, serve others by using the musical gifts God has given you. Let’s keep each other accountable as servants and musicians in the Lord’s service. Let’s be imitators of God and accomplish the work He’s called us to do through serving others. Let’s be singing servants for the Lord Jesus!