Love to Give and Give to Love

Generously Loving. Lovingly Generous.

38 In the course of his teaching he said, “Beware of the scribes, who like to go around in long robes and accept greetings in the marketplaces, 39 seats of honor in synagogues, and places of honor at banquets. 40 They devour the houses of widows and, as a pretext, recite lengthy prayers. They will receive a very severe condemnation.”[a] 41 He sat down opposite the treasury and observed how the crowd put money into the treasury. Many rich people put in large sums. 42 A poor widow also came and put in two small coins worth a few cents. 43 Calling his disciples to himself, he said to them, “Amen, I say to you, this poor widow put in more than all the other contributors to the treasury. 44 For they have all contributed from their surplus wealth, but she, from her poverty, has contributed all she had, her whole livelihood.”-Mark12:38-44

Is it wrong, then, to be greeted by people, to be given seats of honor, and places of honor at banquets? No, not at all. Remember, Jesus Himself was like a rockstar during His ministry. For me, Jesus is inviting us all to keep in mind why we are greeted by people, given seats of honor and places of honor. Why do they think highly of us? Because of the power and position that we have. And what is power and position inviting us to do? To serve the people. Yes, we complement the honor and respect given to us by serving the people with love. Elected government officials must serve the people who put them in office. Celebrities must serve the fans who 'follow' them by being a good example to their fans and constantly remembering that their stardom is nothing without a strong fan base. Teachers who are loved by students and parents must complement this love by teaching the students well. From the lowliest to the highest in authority, all of us must bear in mind to be thankful to God and to return always the honor given us through service.

Image courtesy: God's Not Dead