My son-in-law, Doug, is a nurse. His days are spent unselfishly caring for others. He loves his calling in life and never complains about what some would call a dirty job.
It had been a long day and Doug was looking forward to getting home. As the last hours of his shift ticked slowly away, several police officers in full tactical gear burst into view.
The rapid-fire questions from the officials relayed the urgency of the matter. A call had been received – a threat specifically targeting Doug and his wife. Panic stricken, Doug immediately began messaging his wife and was thankful to find her safe and unharmed.
With the prank caller in police custody, Doug could finally begin the long journey home. He amazed his co-workers by expressing compassion and forgiveness for the person who threatened his family, someone who he believed needed and deserved help.
Driving home, with daylight all but gone and within only a few miles of his home, Doug noticed an elderly woman in trouble, nervously continuing to drive on a flat tire. Sparks were dancing wildly from underneath the car, as the wheel, without the protection of the tire, rolled angrily over the unforgiving surface of the road. It would have been easy to let this opportunity to serve pass to someone else. Could you blame him after all he had been through that day?
Without hesitation, Doug pulled alongside the car and firmly offered to take the lady home, moving her to tears by the generosity and thoughtfulness shown to her. Only after the lady was safe did he allow himself to refocus on his wife and his life, and finally make it home for the day.
The Bible describes greatness as serving others for the glory of God. While few of us will attain earthly greatness, we all have the ability and frequent opportunity to be biblically great. Doug has provided examples.
Will you be great today?
SCRIPTURE – Mark 10:41-45 (NRSV)
41 When the ten heard about this, they became indignant with James and John. 42 Jesus called them together and said, “You know that those who are regarded as rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. 43 Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, 44 and whoever wants to be first must be slave of all. 45 For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”
PRAYER
God, thank you for the gift of greatness. Help us to recognize opportunities to serve others and to understand that the greatness in us is you.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Thank you …..