Service to others is not always a designated afternoon’s worth of service projects. We serve others every day by fulfilling our vocations. In this week’s bible study, you listed a couple of your vocations and how you serve in those capacities. Martin Luther, in his Small Catechism, compiled a Table of Duties: scripture passages that aided in determining what people ought to do. Consider the following selections as they apply to your own vocations.

To Children:

Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. “Honor your father and your mother”—which is the first commandment with a promise— “that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth.” Eph. 6:1–3

To Youth:

Young men, in the same way be submissive to those who are older. All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that He may lift you up in due time. 1 Peter 5:5–6

To Everyone:

The commandments … are summed up in this one rule: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” Rom. 13:9

I urge … that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone. 1 Tim. 2:1

Let each his lesson learn with care, and all the household well shall fare.

  • What about the instructions above can make fulfilling your vocation difficult?
  • Are these passages helpful or encouraging?

In all things, we should remember that God is working through us, and in us, for our neighbor. The Christian life is a life of humble service. Because we have been made new in Christ, we serve joyfully. St. Paul, in 2 Corinthians, tells his fellow believers that God loves a cheerful giver. On our own, we do not want to give or serve, as it takes away from our wealth. The Holy Spirit transforms our hearts so that all Christians know is joyful service and giving. As you go about this week, you are encouraged to serve joyfully, not out of obligation, but out of joy for Christ and love of your neighbor. Go forth in peace, knowing that God sends His Spirit to strengthen you!

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father, of Your goodness You created us and sent Your Son that we may again have life and have it abundantly. For the sake of Christ’s cross and by virtue of His resurrection, our lives do not rush inevitably into death, but we pass from death to life. Mindful of this joyful path that lies before us into eternal life, lead us to delight in Your creation and in every wholesome enrichment for bodily life free from fear of what tomorrow may bring. Grant that we daily grow, learn and enjoy the creation You have made and redeemed, which soon You will restore when Christ comes in His glory; through the same Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.