“For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve. . . .”

— Mark 10:45

Last year I took a course with mission leaders from around the world. On the first day, we were asked this question: How would you describe the central, gospel message of the Bible? I spoke up with an answer that reflects my church tradition. A few others chimed in with their answers.

After several people had spoken, a classmate from Ethiopia gave an answer that many of us did not expect. She said, “I think the story of the Bible centers on the story of God as a servant.”

That got our attention. She went on to explain, “The Bible opens with God creating the world and caring for Adam and Eve. The rest of the Bible is the story of how God put into place a plan to serve the world through his Son, Jesus.” And then she pointed out this beautiful detail: “The Bible ends with a picture of the new Jerusalem, which we are told will not need the sun or moon because God provides the light” (Revelation 21:23). From the beginning into eternity, God serves the world and all who are in it. I had never heard the good news framed in that way, reflecting a different perspective and cultural context.

If Jesus came not to be served but to serve, how does that affect the way we live each day? How should it affect the way we live?

Servant God, I am humbled by your willingness to do whatever was necessary to rescue me. Help me in my life to be a reflection of your self-giving heart. Amen.