"Look not every man on his own things, but every
man also on the things of others." Philippians 2: 4 A life of self-absorption is a shallow and pallid existence.
The man who will live for his own comfort, must at length, shut
himself off from others, and insulate himself from the intrusion of
their needs. Life becomes a meaningless circle of hedonistic
pursuits. Pity the man who will have the world to be his servant.
His selfish spirit is never satisfied. Rather, his pursuits breed
discontent and eventually cynicism and despair.
Christ brought with Him into this world the revolutionary doctrine
of service. By his example, he taught compassion and sacrifice. He
calls us to follow him by looking not on our own wants and desires,
but by considering the needs of others. By following Christ in service,
we are elevated to a higher plane of living. No job is too lowly
that we can not find joy in serving "Him". No station of life too
sinful that we are not moved with divine compassion to rescue a lost
soul.
Service brings its own blessing and reward. When our eyes are turned
outward we grow more thankful, more joyful, and fulfilled. Each day
brings with it new opportunities to serve our Lord.
If in the routine of living your days have become lack-luster, if you
think your lot in life is not what you might have chosen, if you
suffer from grief or depression of spirit, turn your eyes outward.
The task that brought a sigh yesterday can bring a spark of joy
today. Experience the joy of service. A world of opportunities awaits you.
God--let me be aware.
Let me not stumble blindly down the ways,
Just getting somehow safely through the days,
Not even groping for another hand,
Not even wondering why it all was planned,
Eyes to the ground unseeking for the light,
Soul never aching for a wild-winged flight,
Please, keep me eager just to do my share.
God--let me be aware.
God--Let me be aware.
Stab my soul fiercely with other's pain,
Let me walk seeing horror and stain.
Let my hand, groping, find other hands.
Give me the heart that divines, understands.
Give me the courage, wounded, to fight.
Flood me with knowledge, drench me in light.
Please, keep me eager just to do my share.
God--let me be aware.
--Miriam Teichner
