“Diotrephes loves to be first...” (3Jn.9). “Jesus came to serve—not be served… ” (Matt.20:28). “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit.” (Phil.2:3). “I (Jesus) am among you as one who serves.” (Luke 22:27)
Lord Jesus, these passages present a most striking, shocking contrast. Diotrephes loved to be first; but you love to serve. Diotrephes thought of getting and keeping; but yet you became poor to enrich us beyond all comprehension (2Cor.8:9). There is no servant like you Jesus and you always serve with such astonishing joy. It was because of the joy set before you that you endured the cross (Heb.12:2). By your Spirit, send that deep into our hearts. Your joy in redeeming us was greater than the pain and cost of doing so.
Jesus, you have only and always served us—as our Creator, and by your life, death, and resurrection (Phil.2:1-11). And now you ever live to serve us as our Advocate, Intercessor, and King. Even when you return, you will serve us—Bridegroom to bride (Luke 12:37) and Shepherd to sheep (Rev. 7:17). This boggles our minds, humbles our hearts, and compels us to worship and adore you.
Jesus, we are never more like you than when we are serving and putting others first—finding more joy in giving than hoarding, sharing rather than grabbing, encouraging others rather than being appreciated. Give us a fresh portion of this kind of freedom and joy. Thank you for who you are, all you have done on our behalf, and what you are eternally committed to be to us. We are astonished. We are grateful. Hallelujah, and So Very Amen.
