Serve One Another in Love

Human beings long to be important. Think of a four-year-old who blurts out an exciting story in front of her classmates. Picture a fifth-grade boy who dreams of starting in the NBA Finals. What is TikTok other than a platform for teens to chase after influence and status? This inborn desire for importance tends to focus our eyes inward rather than on others. Satan has been using this deception since the first temptation when he promised, “your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God” (Genesis 3:5).

 

God’s Word provides a model for us that is unlike any other in this world. Jesus demonstrated his love for us by coming to the world, taking on human flesh, and laying down his life for the sins of the world. The King of Kings and Lord of Lords used his time on earth to teach, heal, and even wash his disciples’ feet. Serving means giving ourselves for the good of others. Only through God’s love for us can we fully serve and love our neighbor. Through God’s love, he turns our eyes outward from ourselves. We now see opportunities to serve those in our midst.

 

This year’s school theme is based on Galatians 5:13, “You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.” (Galatians 5:13). Serve One Another in Love is the final phase in the Nurture, Build, Serve campaign. Christian education has always been a fundamental priority at ORLS. The building expansion is almost done. Now it is time to refocus our eyes on serving one another with the Word of God and the blessings he has given us. The message of the Gospel is so striking. The story of salvation is unlike anything else in this world, and it compels us to turn our eyes outward and see the opportunities to love and serve one another.

 

Gracious Lord, accept our service
For the sake of Christ, your Son;
Lo, our hope abides now only
In the righteousness he won.
Bless and save us; help and guide us;
Watch to comfort and restore
Till in heav’n we rest rejoicing,
Praising you forevermore. CW484:3

 

-Principal Peck