Luke 22:27

Who is more important, the one who sits at the table or the one who serves? The one who sits at the table, of course. But not here! For I am among you as one who serves.

There is nothing more humbling than listening to the testimony of a young man describing his childhood where he lived in deplorable conditions. He painted a vivid picture of extreme poverty; yet he overcame! He went on to say that being raised in Panama City, Panama was very difficult for his family. Naturally as a child living in these conditions, he did not know what Xbox was or even an iPhone. He didn’t fight with his sisters over which t.v. show to watch that evening; conversations revolved around cleaning the mud out of the house every time it rained and if there was going to be any food to eat for dinner that night. He fully understood that even the simple things in life were hard to come by. This was an awakening moment for me.

You see, this young man was the recipient of “Operation Christmas Child” sponsored by Samaritan’s Purse. This young man learned to trust in Jesus through this wonderful organization.

Samaritan’s Purse Mission Statement:

(https://www.samaritanspurse.org/our-ministry/about-us/)

Samaritan’s Purse is a nondenominational evangelical Christian organization providing spiritual and physical aid to hurting people around the world. Since 1970, Samaritan’s Purse has helped meet needs of people who are victims of war, poverty, natural disasters, disease, and famine with the purpose of sharing God’s love through His Son, Jesus Christ. The organization serves the church worldwide to promote the Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ.

This young man, now living in the United States, travels the country giving his testimony and rallying believers to not only participate in this wonderful ministry but to also volunteer by either packing boxes or delivering them. After watching the video of God’s precious children gleefully opening their Christmas boxes, there is only one response I can make – GO and DO in Jesus’ name. Most children in America are used to opening expensive gifts, gadgets, and clothes. However, these children are thrilled to see pencils, paper, flashlights, and soap…PERSPECTIVE!

I truly do not think we “get it.” Most of us are surrounded by luxury compared to other parts of the world. Honestly, if you have running water and an indoor bathroom, then you are miles ahead of many in this world! We complain when our cell phones aren’t fast enough or our cars aren’t polished enough. We argue to complete strangers over the smallest inconveniences while children are going to bed literally starving.

To this I say – ENOUGH! Our greatest model of servanthood was and continues to be Jesus Christ. God in human form served better than anyone else. He could have easily sat at the head of the table and demanded to be served. However, that was not His mission AND IT’S NOT YOURS! So stop it!

I pray that we humble ourselves and simply give. Give time, energy, and even money if you feel led. Whatever you do…simply serve! There are so many hurting souls. Are we convicted enough to get up from our comfortable couches and plush chairs and get our hands dirty? Are we even convicted enough to go hungry if it meant giving our last meal to a starving family?

Thought: We are quickly approaching the holiday months, and I implore you to simply give! Ask the Holy Spirit to use you in a powerful way.

Thankful,

Christian Armetta