Have you ever been to a restaurant and tried to get a server’s attention? She came in took your order, brought you a drink, your food and then it was hard to find her till she wanted to be paid. Your glass has run empty, you needed another napkin but she did not look at you or offer to help.

Have you ever been to a restaurant where just the opposite is true? She took your order, brought your drink and food and she was always hovering near. When your glass was only half full, she refilled it. She brought you more napkins and with a smile asked if she could do anything else. Which of the two got the biggest tip?

Service is important, isn’t it? Luke, by the inspiration of the Holy Spirit recorded "For the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost" (19:10). The Apostle Paul tells us Jesus "emptied Himself, taking the form of a bond-servant…" (Philippians 2:7). Jesus came to serve others. As the God and Creator of this world He deserves to be served, but He was willing to serve.

Many in our world today do not have the servant attitude. They have their hand out expecting to be served rather than serving others. Some are self-absorbed and only think of what they can get instead of how they can give to others.

In the sermon on the mount Jesus said, "and whoever shall force you to go one mile, go with him two" (Matt. 5:41). We have turned the phrase "Going the extra mile" from this verse of scripture. But are we? Do we help others only expecting to be helped in return? Do we help others knowing they do not have the means or resources to help us? Do we give of ourselves when others have needs?

James asks the question if a brother or sister has a need for clothing or just enough food for today and all we say is "Go in peace, be warmed and be filled" (2:16) have we given them what is necessary? The answer is no. And neither do we. Service involves getting involved with others and meeting their needs to the best of our ability.

God calls us to be servants who are willing to put others first. Are we doing that? If not, look around, someone needs your help. Don’t make them have to try to find you, you go first.