For you have been called to live in freedom, my brothers and sisters. But don’t use your freedom to satisfy your sinful nature. Instead, use your freedom to serve one another in love. Galatians 5:13 NLT
If you have known Jesus for long, you know the gift of freedom a relationship with Him gives is unmatched. Freedom from guilt, shame, regret – freedom to live life with joy. This gift of freedom is best spent using our free choice to serve others in love. What does that mean?
Jesus told us His one command in our life of freedom is that we would love others in the same way He loves us. That means we joyfully and willingly serve others, not because we MUST, but because we want to do what we can. All of us have unique and special gifts that not everyone else has. But when we belong to His body, there are some ways we can love others like Jesus does. As we serve them in love, all of us will be helped and encouraged.
We can all listen. One of the most valuable gifts we can give another person is our attention. An authentic form of respect is taking time to carefully listen to the thoughts of another person’s heart.
We can all pray. We can notice the needs of others and pray for them. It is wonderful to pray for someone and also very encouraging to tell someone that you are praying for them. It helps them realize they are not alone.
We can all share what we have. Sometimes, appropriately, it is wisdom. Sometimes it is financial help. Sometimes it is a visit or a few moments of sit-down affirmation. Sometimes it us a meal. But we are like Jesus when we see what has been given to us as a gift to be shared.
We can all encourage. My dad used to regularly say, “Be kinder than necessary. Everyone you meet is carrying a heavy load.” Everyone you meet today could use a lift. Almost all of them need it. Speaking a word of hope to someone may be your most significant contribution today.
We can all show up. In our busy world the value of presence in hard times is underrated. We know there is a need to surround each other with love and support, but we are busy. Someone else will do it. Taking time to show up when another person is grieving, overwhelmed, confused, and alone is one of the noblest things we can do. It’s like Jesus.
- In a world of compelling and massive need, there is no room to ever feel unnecessary. You are free to do good. It’s your purpose in life.