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Day 23 – Service
It is often said that college is a “selfish time” and should be so. After all, this is when we first get out on our own and find our individual identities. The question is, where is our identity found? Is it found in our dreams and ambitions, in the things we might want at any given moment? Or might it be found in the denial of ourselves for the sake of those around us?
Jesus’ disciples were arguing about who was the greatest among them. He told them not to think of greatness, but of humility. Their greatness is the last thing they ought to strive toward. God’s beloved sons and daughters are called, not to rule, but to serve, placing the needs of others above their own. This is our calling as well. Can we rejoice in such a calling?
We are told to put others above ourselves in joy, and not out of obligation. It is not to gain more of God’s favor. We can live no other way, having been saved by the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. When our identity rests in Christ Jesus, our priorities will become more and more like His.
“For though I be free from all men, yet have I made myself servant unto all, that I might gain the more.” 1 Corinthians 9:19 (KJV)
The question remains, what will this freshman year of college look like for you? Will this be a year of self-sacrifice and service to others, or a year in which the self is the only thing in sight? It is my prayer that it will be a time of discovering identity in Christ, and finding joy in the serving of others.
BROOKE PERNICE | SLA, Senior | Religion & the Arts major and English Writing minor
It is often said that college is a “selfish time” and should be so. After all, this is when we first get out on our own and find our individual identities. The question is, where is our identity found? Is it found in our dreams and ambitions, in the things we might want at any given moment? Or might it be found in the denial of ourselves for the sake of those around us?
Jesus’ disciples were arguing about who was the greatest among them. He told them not to think of greatness, but of humility. Their greatness is the last thing they ought to strive toward. God’s beloved sons and daughters are called, not to rule, but to serve, placing the needs of others above their own. This is our calling as well. Can we rejoice in such a calling?
We are told to put others above ourselves in joy, and not out of obligation. It is not to gain more of God’s favor. We can live no other way, having been saved by the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. When our identity rests in Christ Jesus, our priorities will become more and more like His.
“For though I be free from all men, yet have I made myself servant unto all, that I might gain the more.” 1 Corinthians 9:19 (KJV)
The question remains, what will this freshman year of college look like for you? Will this be a year of self-sacrifice and service to others, or a year in which the self is the only thing in sight? It is my prayer that it will be a time of discovering identity in Christ, and finding joy in the serving of others.
BROOKE PERNICE | SLA, Senior | Religion & the Arts major and English Writing minor
About this Plan
This 40 day prayer plan was written by students, faculty and staff at Belmont University as a daily devotional for incoming freshmen. Each day guides and encourages new college students in their faith in Jesus Christ through the word of God and the sincere thoughts, seasoned advice and honest prayers of the contributing authors. May these words help you grow in your love for God and your love for others!
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We would like to thank the students, faculty & staff of Belmont University for providing this plan. For more information, please visit: www.belmont.edu
