When I think of the word “service,” one of the first things that pops into my head is the lyrics to a song we often sing in our congregation, “Will You Let Me Be Your Servant” (Voices Together 778). Our hymnal sometimes uses first lines as titles; however, the actual song title is “The Servant Song,” written by Richard Gillard. I love the simplicity and folk-style music and find the words inspiring, encouraging us to care for one another, as we journey on the road of life. I especially appreciate that this song begins with a question. The question implies an invitation, giving space for one to make a choice, an opportunity to be a fellow traveler on the road.
When it comes to our service opportunities, my hope is that people will have this same feeling — an invitation to explore and participate in one or more of our programs. Jesus modeled for us what it means to invite others to follow, to live for God’s kingdom, by choosing to serve others, rather than living for personal gain. Jesus met people along the way, spent time with them and invited them to follow him. And in Matthew 20:26-28, Jesus also spoke of what it means to serve one another.
Community is a core focus of Anabaptist theology. We, as Anabaptists, choose to do life with others, rather than rely on and serve solely ourselves. As we invite people to serve in various parts of the world, we also extend an invitation to particpants’ families, churches, communities and other social groups. When a person says yes to Service Adventure, Mennonite Voluntary Service, SOOP, International Ministries, or a trip with Youth Venture or Just Peace Pilgrimage, they will need your support. This is a moment when a hand is being held out, inviting you to take part in the journey. It is an invitation to pray for and with them, to learn alongside them, as they share with you personally or in their newsletter, blogs, vlogs and social media, and to support them with finances and resources, when there is a need. This is important; it’s a call to action.
It is an invitation to:
- Pray for and with them.
- Learn alongside them.
My prayer today is that we will each consider how we might be fellow travelers on the road, serving one another in walking the mile together, bearing the load for one another, and no matter where we are, sharing together in times of joy, sorrow and laughter.
Marisa Smucker
Executive Director