Servant to All

The story of Christmas begins with angels proclaiming “good news of great joy for all people” to shepherds in a field (Luke 2:8-11). The word “all” carries immense weight. It underscores that Christ’s message is inclusive, transcending barriers of status, background, and past mistakes. He came for everyone—those who feel unworthy, those who struggle, and even those who actively oppose Him.

This inclusivity challenges us to reflect on how we view others. Do we limit our service to those we deem deserving, or do we embody Christ’s example of unconditional love and servanthood?

Scriptures like John 13:3-5 and Mark 10:35-45 reveal that Christ chose the position of a servant. Though fully divine, He humbled Himself, embracing humanity and even death on a cross. This act was not a condition placed upon Him but a deliberate choice.

By nature, we are not born servants. We’re born seeking to be served. Yet, servanthood is a calling that requires intentionality. It’s a choice to place others’ needs above our own, even when it’s inconvenient or uncomfortable.

But how do we cultivate this heart of service? Let’s explore three guiding principles:

In Mark 10:35-45, James and John approached Jesus with a request to sit at His right and left in His Kingdom. Their perspective was skewed; they envisioned positions of honor and privilege. They wanted the benefits of leadership without the burdens of servanthood.

Jesus’ response was a paradigm shift: “Whoever wants to be a leader among you must be your servant” (Mark 10:43). Leadership in His Kingdom is not about authority or accolades but about humility and service. It’s about stepping down from positions of comfort to uplift others.

Our perspective shapes our actions. When we view servanthood as an opportunity rather than an obligation, we align ourselves with Christ’s example. We stop asking, “What can I gain?” and start asking, “How can I give?”

The purpose of servanthood is not self-glorification but the glorification of God and the good of others. Jesus contrasted worldly rulers who “lord it over” their people with the servant-leader model He exemplified. He taught that true greatness comes from meeting the needs of others, not seeking personal gain.

This purpose challenges our competitive nature. In a culture that prizes being first, servanthood invites us to willingly take the last place. It’s not about diminishing our worth but about elevating the worth of others.

Jesus’ life is the ultimate blueprint for servanthood. Mark 10:45 states:

“For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many.”

His service was not limited to acts of kindness; it culminated in the ultimate sacrifice—His death on the cross. Through this act, He demonstrated that servanthood requires selflessness, sacrifice, and a willingness to put others’ needs before our own.

When we follow His pattern, we discover that servanthood is not a burden but a pathway to fulfillment. It connects us to God’s heart and allows us to participate in His redemptive work in the world.

As we approach Christmas, the manger reminds us of the profound humility of Christ’s birth. He entered the world not in a palace but in a stable, sending a clear message: greatness is found in serving others.

May we choose to embody this message, not just during the holiday season but every day. When we adopt the right perspective, understand the right purpose, and follow the right pattern, we reflect the heart of Christ to a world in need.

Let us embrace servanthood as a choice, allowing it to transform our lives and the lives of those around us. For in serving others, we find true joy, purpose, and a deeper connection with the One who came to serve us all.