I picked this title years ago as my banner for sharing my thoughts in our previous information format.  It is indicative of why I am teaching, visiting, organizing, and loving the people of Trinity.  Although society defines it negatively, being a servant does not mean being a doormat, or doing grunge work.  It is a humble attitude of caring concern; serving others out of love and concern for their well being.  I serve because Christ served me.  Yes, I know the 12th verse in John chapter 15 actually says “love one another as I have loved you”, but John also records Jesus servant act to his followers when He washed their feet.  Jesus said there, “I have given you an example, that you also should do just as I have done to you.”   What a greater show of love than to kneel and wash dirty feet.  So whose feet have you washed lately?

Deaconess Liz BorthIn the Gospel writing from Matthew (20:28), Jesus’ words clearly define His purpose: “the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve…”  You should understand and accept that it is not my job to serve you with time and talent.  It is not my job that moves me to go into homes, hospital rooms, fellowship hall, classrooms, and social ministry events.  It is not my job to uplift, encourage, listen, sympathize, share, and teach.  It is my privilege.  The heart of a servant who loves the Master is one that shows love for fellow servants.  There can be no envy or malice among those who serve The Lord.  I joke just a little about foot washing. I don’t literally expect to see basins, towels, and soap stacked up in the narthex or school entryway.   I do expect to see genuine smiles for each other, sincere offers to share prayers for each other, and specific, dedicated time given to the church.

Do you recall your last service to Trinity Church and School?  Tie up your “outer garment” and wrap a towel “around your waist”.  Kneel before the Lord and serve Him by giving time and energy and love to each other.  Now you may be in a discomfort zone to take a step of servant hood, but being a Christ follower is far from comfortable.  Consider the simple call of Jesus to his first disciples: “Come, follow me”.  Leave what you know; depart from the security of family and friends; trust that I have a better future and plan for you.  And they did.  Oh, don’t pull the age trick out of your hat!  Abraham was seventy-five when he left the comforts of home to go out and establish a new nation.  Stretch yourself and stop shrinking.  Complacency will deprive you of growth and that is a dangerous place to be.  So, here you will find a list of a few opportunities to give just a little of what you have received.  I have no doubt your blessing basket will overflow when you start dipping into it to share.

– Deaconess Liz Borth

Eborth@TrinityDowntown.com

  • Trinity Shares Christmas is coming!  Watch for details on how you can help organize this annual event serving children and families of incarcerated parents.

  • Trinity’s Free Coffee Team begins serving cups of coffee October 9th.  Each week, Wednesday morning on the corner touches dozens of lives with a simple gift.

  • Orlando Union Rescue Mission is planning a family festival on October 25.  Help by providing a fun booth (face painting, fishing, ball toss, etc).

  • The OUR Mission is also looking for someone to help play with and entertain small children on September 26, October 10 and 24, November 7 and 14 from 12 pm to 5 pm.

  • Trinity Counters can use some early Monday morning money financiers.  It’s a great opportunity to join a weekly team for work and breakfast!

  • Lutheran Service of Florida’s Good Samaritan Dinner needs new ideas for planning a volunteer recognition dinner in February.

  • PTL anticipates every family of the school will willingly and happily give PRICE hours to benefit the school children.

 

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