A Song of a Servant

Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant.

Matthew 20:26

I am singing the song of a servant.  It’s a song whose words are not centered upon me or my desires. Instead, it’s a song focused upon the greatness of God and His plan. The verses concentrate upon my inability and His ability, upon my weakness and His power, upon His call and my surrender.  The repeated refrain is “Lord, I will follow You. Wherever You lead I will go, and whatever You ask I will do.”

It’s not always easy to sing this song. At times I try to change the words of the refrain to “Lord, I will follow You, but this is where I want You to lead me. Lord, I want to be used by You, but this is what I want to do.” Have you ever sung these words to God?

 I employ a sweet woman who cooks, cleans and cares for my mother. What if she said to me, “This is what I will do for you…,” but what if it was not what I was asking of her? Would I consider her a good servant? Absolutely not! A servant doesn’t tell his master what he will or will not do. A servant listens to his master and joyfully does all he can to please him.

Jesus said, If anyone would come after Me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow Me (Luke 9:23). John writes, To him who loves us and has freed us from our sins by his blood, and has made us to be a kingdom and priests to serve his God and Father--to him be glory and power forever and ever! Amen (Revelation 1:5-6).

A believer becomes a new creation who longs to serve and glorify God. As we follow Him and serve Him faithfully, we are empowered. Serving Him brings deep joy and satisfaction.

Father, thank You for the privilege of being Your servant and for the joy serving You brings. Help me daily to follow You and serve You faithfully in whatever way you ask. May You be glorified through me.

Jan Burkhart