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Sunday, January 19, 2025

January 19 -- "Ransomed for Love: Embracing Servanthood"

 

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Today's reflection brings us back to Jesus' powerful message of selfless service, a theme He lived out through His own actions. Amidst a world focused on self-interest and personal gain, Jesus stands as the ultimate example, declaring, "I came not to be served but to serve, and to give My life as a ransom for many." This verse captures the essence of Christian discipleship: living a life devoted to serving God and others.

Jesus' words urge us to reconsider our priorities. In Philippians 2:5-7, Paul encourages us to “have the same mindset as Christ Jesus” who, despite being in very nature God, did not see equality with God as something to use to His advantage. Instead, He humbled Himself, taking on the nature of a servant. This profound call to servanthood goes beyond simply performing acts of service—it’s about embracing a servant's heart in everything we do.

Jesus goes on to say that He came “to give His life as a ransom for many.” This points to Jesus' forthcoming sacrificial death on the cross, where He would demonstrate the ultimate act of service. In ancient times, a ransom was the price paid by a “redeemer” to release someone from bondage or captivity. Similarly, humanity, ensnared by sin and death, needed a Redeemer to set us free. Jesus would pay this ransom with His own life, freeing us from the power of sin and reconciling us to God.  As 1 Timothy 2:6 reminds us, "Christ Jesus... gave Himself as a ransom for all."

For today's follower of Christ, true discipleship means dying to self and seeking opportunities to serve others in our daily lives. It could be as simple as lending a listening ear, offering a helping hand, or sacrificing our time and resources for someone in need.  Jesus' example shows us that no act of service is inconsequential when done with love and humility.

As we strive to emulate Jesus' example, let us remember that true greatness in His kingdom is measured by our willingness to serve others. Let the love of Christ inspire us to lay down our lives for our friends, families, and even strangers.  In doing so, we mirror the heart of our Savior, who gave everything for us.

May your life bear witness to His love through your acts of selfless service. And may you “look not only to your own interests but also to the interests of others" (Philippians 2:4).

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