Main Thought
How does a tennis match start? It starts with a “serve” - a shot delivered to start the action. One study estimated that an average professional tennis match typically sees between 100-150 serves. But what does this have to do with the Mission of God? Often, things start when we “serve.” God’s Mission began when He decided to serve humanity by sending His Son, Jesus. Jesus served by living a perfect life, yet choosing to go to the Cross for our sins. He served so that we could belong to His family, believe in Him, and become the people that we were made to be. We can create opportunities for people to belong, believe, and become the people that God made them to be when we serve them too.
Main Passages
25 But Jesus called them to him and said, “You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them. 26 It shall not be so among you. But whoever would be great among you must be your servant, 27 and whoever would be first among you must be your slave, 28 even as the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”
- Matthew 20:25-28
10 As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace…
- 1 Peter 4:10
16 “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” - John 3:16
Discussion Questions
What stands out to you in the Main Thought and Passages above?
Why do you think God calls us to serve people, both in His Church and outside it?
Can you think of anyone who is a) in your sphere of influence; b) far from God, and; c) in need of help or service in some way? How can serving that person (or people) around you create opportunities to engage them on behalf of Jesus Christ?