Voluntary Servants

Reading: 1 Corinthians 9; Proverbs 27

17 If this was my own idea of just another way to make a living, I’d expect some pay. But since it’s not my idea but something solemnly entrusted to me, why would I expect to get paid? 18 So am I getting anything out of it? Yes, as a matter of fact: the pleasure of proclaiming the Message at no cost to you. You don’t even have to pay my expenses! 19 Even though I am free of the demands and expectations of everyone, I have voluntarily become a servant to any and all in order to reach a wide range of people: (1 Corinthians 9:17-19 MSG)

Paul had made it very clear that he wasn’t writing to the church in Corinth asking for support or for an offering. From Paul’s story gleaned from the Acts and from personal notes in his letters, it’s clear that he was willing to work to support himself as he carried The Good News to those who had not heard. In fact, Paul said that all his ministry was purely voluntary. He was obligated to no one for his pay, so he could voluntarily become a servant to anyone and everyone.

There’s something especially freeing about voluntarily serving. There are a lot of people who voluntarily serve their families, their churches, and their communities, generously giving their most precious commodity, their time.

For some years now, the Baby Boomers have been aging out of the workforce. Many Baby Boomers are using the freedom of retirement to focus on hobbies, travel, and recreation. Others are using their newfound freedom to voluntarily serve in their communities, churches, and around the world. Some Boomers are using the skills gained in a lifetime of business or employment to assist in the work of schools, charitable organizations, and Christian missionary agencies. Others are learning new skills and serving in entirely fresh and new ways.

They are Voluntary Servants. They don’t have to do it. They are under obligation to no one. They are simply serving from the heart. I admire that!

Prayer:

Father, Thank you for everyone who has voluntarily become a servant in your kingdom work. Thank you for all those who are serving their families, their churches, and their communities. Thank you for those who are serving the poor, the helpless, and the disadvantaged. Under no obligation, freely serving from the heart. Giving their most precious thing, their time. Bless all the voluntary servants with all your richest blessings. Amen.