Treasures Still Hidden in the Upper Room - 3

Part 3, From Yesterday’s Post

Moses and David are a just few examples of men with a servants heart. They show us that a heart of service always wants others to exceed above self. Two of Jesus’ disciples, James and John Zebedee had to learn this lesson. In the upper room they were arguing about who was the best and could they both be seated by Jesus in heaven. Jesus gently rebuked them and told them that only the Father knows who will be where in heaven. Also, the cost of what they were asking for would be very high and he encouraged them to put others above themselves.

Many desire the call of leadership. There’s nothing wrong with that desire, but there is a high price tag for the privilege. Pastor, Teacher, Evangelist, Apostle and Prophet are synonymous with servant, a lifestyle of death to self and putting others before yourself. The higher the call, the greater the servant hood. My husband showed me an article called “Guide for Elder Wannabe’s” on the internet. It’s interesting and worth reading. Here are a few excerpts from the article. 1) “Find the janitor in your church and offer to help him with his responsibilities....Do the work he’d rather not do. 2)Ask yourself. Are you really sure you want to become an elder....? If the answer is yes you likely shouldn’t. Sounds unbelievable but true. Not to say you can’t, but spend time serving in your church instead of trying to “confirm” a call by asking every person you respect what.... they think God’s will is for you. Let the people of God lift you up at the right time. If you are truly called to ministry, it will happen in due time as God ordains......:”

Over the years I’ve come to see three major stumbling blocks that can keep us from our full potential. 1) Self focus: I’ve got to much to do, someone else can do it. 2) Self importance: I’ve got a calling. I’m not meant to do it. 3) Self indulgence: I have to focus on what’s important and not burn myself out. We have to be careful not to fall into one of the “self” traps, but how? The remedy is simple. We are to pick up the hidden treasure. We are to follow Jesus’ example. We are to serve.

The hidden treasure is priceless beyond compare. Through the scripture Jesus has reached out and washed our feet. By example he’s given us direction and even given us a blessing if we obey. The blessing is also in John 13 “....Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them.” Go likewise and be blessed.