Service

Service

It was revealed to [the prophets] that they were not serving themselves but you, when they spoke of the things that have now been told you by those who have preached the gospel to you by the Holy Spirit sent from heaven. Even angels long to look into these things.

1 Peter 1:12, NIV

What comes to mind when you think of the word service? A friend preparing a delicious meal and serving you at her dining-room table? A soldier who is contributing to the freedom of our country? A Sunday school teacher who faithfully challenges your child toward faith in God?

I offer thanks to the people around me who work and serve on my behalf. But until reading 1 Peter 1:12, I had never thought to thank God for the benefits I have received through the ancient prophets. Old Testament prophets were men of incredible service—not only to the people of their day but to us as well. They spoke of the salvation that we presently experience, and yet they never lived to see how or when it all took place. Their service must have been prompted by incredible faith.

Christians living today are privileged to have the benefit of looking back on Jesus’ birth, death, and resurrection, and the entire Word of God is available to us. When we consider the faith and service of prophets of old—who had none of these benefits—we should be inspired to serve God out of gratitude and love.

Father,

Thank you for the service of the prophets and the service of people who passed on the Good News to us. May we be women who are anxious to serve you, our families, and others around us. Amen.