I Have Come to Serve, Not to Be Served

Let’s be honest, serving isn’t easy. It’s tiring. It’s messy. Sometimes it feels like no one notices, and other times it feels like no one even cares. But here’s the thing, when we serve, especially when it costs us something, we’re never more like Jesus.

Jesus came to serve, not to be served. And His service wasn’t about convenience or comfort. It was rooted in sacrifice. He gave everything, His time, His energy, His very life, so that we could experience healing and restoration.

In today’s first reading (Isaiah 62:1-5), God’s people were living in exile. Their mission wasn’t to fight their way out or take up arms. Instead, they were called to pray and serve, even in the middle of their suffering. Letting go of your own plans, setting aside your agenda and trusting God’s plan instead? But that’s the kind of service God asks of us, a service that’s rooted in sacrifice, not convenience.

St Paul takes it further in the second reading (1 Corinthians 12:4-11). He tells the Corinthians, “You’ve been given gifts, use them!” And here’s the catch, those gifts aren’t for you. They’re for others. They’re meant to build up the Church and bring healing to the world. But using them means staying focused on the truth of the Holy Spirit, not getting distracted by what’s popular or easy.

In the Gospel, the wedding at Cana, Jesus at the very start of His ministry, performing His first miracle. But let’s not miss what’s happening beneath the surface. Jesus didn’t plan to act that day, it wasn’t “His time.” But when Mary noticed the need, she turned to Him. And even though it wasn’t part of His agenda, Jesus stepped in. He sacrificed His plans for the sake of others.

In his homily, Fr Stanley reminded us that this is what service looks like. It’s not always glamorous. It’s not always convenient. It’s not about getting something in return. It’s about showing up, giving what we have and trusting that God will use it to bring healing and freedom.

But let’s be real, service is hard. People might not thank you. They might even reject you. But Jesus shows us that the sacrifices we make in service aren’t wasted. When we give with joy, our work becomes more than just an effort, it becomes redemptive.

“True happiness is found in unselfish love, a love which increases in proportion as it is shared.” – Thomas Merton

So, how do we live this out? How do we create a culture of selfless service? Start small. Look around. Is there someone who needs your time, your help, your encouragement? Maybe it’s as simple as offering a listening ear or going out of your way to make someone feel valued. These little sacrifices, done with love can change lives, including yours.

Jesus came to serve and to set people free. And now, as His Church, that’s our mission too. Let’s ask for the grace to serve well, to serve joyfully, even when it’s hard. Because when we do, we reflect His heart to the world.