“Oh you didn’t have to do all that! I don’t want to make you do extra work!”
I had a friend say this recently when I did some service for them during a rough time.
But it wasn’t hard work for me, honestly.
I love this friend, I wanted to make their burden lighter, and I even felt like I hadn’t done enough.
But… I can also think of other times when I’ve served out of obligation or assignment, and it sure has felt like a burden to me.
My “service” becomes another thing added to my to-do list.
I think Jacob can teach us a lesson about what the difference is between these two scenarios.
He loved Rachel.
So when her father requested Jacob work 7 years for her hand:
“Jacob served seven years for Rachel; and they seemed unto him but a few days, for the love he had to her.” (Genesis 29:20)
Love.
I think love is the difference.
Have you noticed this?
When I focus on how much I love my kids, the service I do for them seems much lighter— not even like service! I’m just helping them out.
When I focus on how much I love my husband, I want to serve him and make his life much easier because I find joy in it.
When I’m filled with love for people in my community, I have a natural desire to serve them and make their burdens lighter.
Love makes service a joy!
Happy Studying!
-Cali Black
