LBW #252, “You Servants of God”
Devotion
Some time ago, there was a separate entrance into a house that was to be used by the servants who worked there. It was marked by the words “Servants' entrance.”
The hymn listed above describes the Christian as one who is Christ’s servant. It calls forth the praise of God, quoting Revelation 7:9-12: “We worship the Lamb, who was slain for the sins of the world.” It echoes the words of Jesus in the Gospel reading, “Whoever would be first among you must be slave of all” (Mark 10:44).
Slave? What kind of self-esteem building is that all about? Is this an outmoded concept? Is it tied to another age that has been passed by? Our hymn, “You Servants of God” reminds us that Jesus’ call to service and sacrifice was the right way to go. His way was, and is, the way.
Prayer
Lord God, as we worship you for what you have done for us and for what you are, help us in our doubts. Remind us that the way of service is the way Jesus leads us. In Jesus’ name, Amen.