Presence Of God In Serving
BRD REFLECTIONS:
(David Mok, Chairperson, Church Analytics Ministry)
READ:
For this reflection, I focused on John 12:2-8.
OBSERVE:
At a dinner honouring Jesus, Mary poured expensive perfume on His feet and wiped them with her hair. Judas Iscariot objected, saying the perfume could have been sold to help the poor. Jesus then told Judas to let Mary be, stating, “You will always have the poor among you, but you will not always have me.”
APPLY:
This passage contains valuable insights and spiritual wisdom, including a symbolic prophetic act. My main takeaway from this passage is the distinction between performing actions for God and putting Him in the centre of what we do.
Over two decades ago, my wife and I participated in a mission trip to China to help out at an orphanage. This mission trip was organised by an international Christian mission organisation which drew volunteers from various parts of the world. All participants were eager to serve God upon our arrival at the orphanage. Initially, everyone promptly began contributing to areas where they could assist. However, polite exchanges of assistance soon turned into complaints and criticisms regarding the orphanage. These were understandable since many practices within the orphanage did not meet the high standards of first-world countries and insisting on high standards meant we wanted to do our best for God. Nevertheless, tensions arose between the Asian contingent of volunteers (who were less critical and more constructive) and the Western contingent. The situation deteriorated to the point where both groups needed to hold a meeting and seek God’s forgiveness through prayer. It was only after placing God in the centre of everyone’s hearts that the work at the orphanage became productive and enjoyable.
My takeaway from this experience is that while we may have the desire to perform good deeds for God, it is crucial to place being with God first. Well-meaning efforts intended to serve God lose their significance if He is not placed in the centre of our hearts.
DO:
I need to watch myself while serving in church and the community. It is important not to be overly zealous or critical towards those I serve and work with. I will remember that as much as I think others need my help, I too need help from God to shape my character. I want to be encouraging and gentle.
PRAY:
Lord Jesus, thank You for this passage. Thank You for helping me to remember the posture of humility and grace needed when I serve. Forgive me for my trespasses. I will focus on being mindful of Your presence as I serve You.
