Friend, Christ demonstrated his love by serving others. Everywhere he went, he took care of the immediate needs of all whom he encountered. He did not first require their acknowledgment of his deity or expect something in return for his deeds. He simply took care of people as he saw the need to do so. You should do likewise. Do good deeds simply because good deeds need to be done, not to gain recognition from men or rewards in Heaven. It is the deed motivated by grace and humility that shines and pleases God. Be careful not to do righteous and generous things only because you seek applause and praise. Take an honest look at your motives and choose to humble yourself before others, for God lifts up the humble servant. Remember that it is one thing to serve others motivated only by the goal of being a good person, and quite another to serve because you are moved by deep Christian love. The latter is much more noble than the former. The call to all Christians is to do good deeds, with those deeds wrapped in love, not for any personal gain whatsoever, including self-satisfaction (even praising yourself in your private thoughts is to seek your own glory). Recall your purpose and do good deeds to bring glory to God.
Let me point out that there are many burdens: financial, spiritual, emotional, and physical. To the extent you are able, help lighten others’ burdens, whatever they may be. Serve not because you must but because you are willing and eager to be of help to your fellow man, your neighbor, in honor of Christ. Again, Christ demonstrated his love by serving others, and he offered his life to save yours. Therefore, with a heart grateful for your salvation, care for others, serving them as often as you can, all the while urging them on to their own good deeds. When you are serving others, not only can you put your faith into action and help others see the ways in which God is working in the world, you will find opportunities to explain why you do what you may be doing. Blessed be the day that you explain to someone that it is not your goodness, but Christ alive in you — that is the reason for your service.
I should remind you that you, just as I am, even though saved in Christ and committed to Christian ideals, are a broken person as long as you are alive in this world. That means that you will continue to wrestle with things that are not holy, including anger and resentment when someone appears ungrateful for what you have done for them. Be careful here, for that reaction is fueled by selfish judgment that all too quickly may lead to wrath. It is best to be merciful in your thoughts. Perhaps your beneficiary does not know how to express gratitude or is slow to trust your motive. Be patient and forgiving, and continue on in willing service knowing that God in Heaven is pleased with you. Remember always that he is who you serve, and your deeds are never unnoticed. May all the angels rejoice as they witness your acts of service! May the Lord be pleased to greet you with these words, “Well done, good and faithful servant!” Amen.
