Tag: <span>serve</span>


Look at me. I stand at the door. I knock. If you hear me call and open the door, I’ll come right in and sit down to supper with you…”   Revelation 3:20 (The Message)


We attend a downtown church that has been in place 140 years. We have wonderful programs for the people of the “church family,” as well as many activities for all segments of the community. Children eagerly run in on Tuesday evenings to meet with their tutors who have prepared specific lessons for their academic growth. On Thursdays and Fridays young moms with infants in arms and toddlers in hand come for mornings of fun, practical advice and spiritual encouragements while their children are lovingly cared for. Each weekend a variety of worship services are offered.

While the church now owns several buildings fit for almost any use, faithful people sacrificially erected the current “sanctuary building” in the late 1800’s.  But years later a growing congregation sacrificed in another way. When they realized that the space they loved was no longer sufficient for growth, they unanimously voted to “implode” the stone building with its beautiful steeple. When the new and larger building was complete, huge and beautiful oak doors led from the street into the sanctuary.

But today those same oak doors—designed for welcome—often become a barrier instead of an entrance. Street people with their backpacks and homeless teens roam the streets regularly pass those doors. One young girl said to a friendly parishioner when he invited her to come in, “Oh, I could never come through those doors. That building looks like it’s for good people.”

We are people committed to being faithful followers of Jesus.

We extend ourselves to people of all backgrounds and stations of life. And yet there are those big oak doors. I wonder if there are “oak doors” in my life?  Attitudes or actions that keep people at arm’s length from me? I don’t know if the oak doors will be—or need to be—removed in our church building, but I am responsible to make sure my heart’s doors remain open for conversation and relationship.

by Marilyn Ehle
Used by Permission

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FURTHER READING

Send Jesus to the Door – by Gail Rodgers

• When You Open the Door –  by Bill Bright

He’s Still Knocking – by Marilyn Ehle

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thoughts by Marilyn Ehle Thoughts by Women


The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’ Matthew 25:40 NIV


My favorite fast-food restaurant is known for cheerfully greeting its customers with, “How may I serve you?” After serving me, it’s often followed up with, “It was my pleasure to serve you.” How refreshing to hear! If I’m not in the best mood or frame of mind, these words can change my outlook on life in that very moment.

Are we finding ways to serve others throughout our week?

Are we finding ways to help or bless them? I just have to pause and look around; opportunities abound if I open my eyes, ears and heart.

At the last supper Jesus took a cloth and basin of water and kneeled to wash the disciples’ feet. This was a beautiful picture of the King of kings humbling Himself before others in a spirit of service. He set an example that any of us can follow.

    • How can I serve my family, friends and neighbors?
    • How can I serve a stranger?
    • How can I serve my church?
    • How can I serve you, Lord?

The Bible clarifies that as we do for the least of them, it’s as if we do it for God. Our service doesn’t have to be dramatic. It can be meaningful and worthy when done with a sincere heart and pure motives.

I want to make a difference. I want to impact the lives of others in a way that lifts them up and encourages them, to make things better.

Lord, may I have a spirit of service reflecting the example of Jesus, commit to serving others, and pledge my obedience to you to further your kingdom work and glorify you.

By Karen Huffaker
Used by Permission

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FURTHER READING

•  The Walk of Obedience – by Mary Pinckney

•  Blessed Obedience – by Ideletter McVicker

•  God Requires Risky Obedience – by Jon Walker

thoughts by Karen Huffaker Thoughts by Women