By Chris Bates
We rarely if ever consider one primary thing that Jesus’ disciples did perhaps more than anything: They walked. Several of them walked up to Jesus on the shore when He called them. They traversed from city to city, from one home to another. They walked together after the crucifixion and as they went out to the world. The important point is that while they walked, they carried the message and served others.
We are built as humans to relate to others. Whether we do so selfishly or in service is up to us. At the beginning of the parable of the good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37), Jesus recalls scripture by saying, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind”; and, “Love your neighbor as yourself.” After Jesus relays the story of which man was a neighbor to the robbed man, he tells the law expert to “Go and do likewise.” Time and time again the Word tells us to serve others and to love our neighbor as ourselves. How can that play out in each of our lives?
Not long ago I told a young man whom I am mentoring that the only way I can be sure I’m telling him the best information is to share my own experiences. If I give advice or opinions, then those are filtered through my perspective, then contrived and interpreted to some degree. But if I become transparent about my own experiences, faults, and life lessons, hopefully he can identify, relate, and learn from my errors and strengths. I can best serve others by sharing my truth, then walking with them in their journey. For example, I sometimes work with others who, like myself, have Type 1 diabetes. If I give advice and direction, I am playing the role of a medical professional, which I am not. However, when I share my past challenges, frustrations and successes that relate to their trials, I am able to serve them truthfully and practically.
We were discussing recently in our Bible study group that discipleship is made up of two things: learning and serving. We have many opportunities to do both of those things in life. If we are seeking, we can learn from so many resources, whether that’s the Word, a friend or a spouse, a mentor, or the mistakes of others. Opportunities surround us every day to serve others, and we all have experience that is valuable to others. The challenge lies in embracing life experiences, sharing them with our neighbors, and walking alongside them on their journey. As C.S. Lewis said, “What draws people to be friends is that they see the same truth. They share it.”
In His parting words to the disciples, Jesus emphasized the importance of spreading the message and serving others. The Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20) underscores the call to go forth, make disciples, and serve with the assurance of His divine presence. So, go out to share your journey, walk with others, and serve them well.
Chris Bates is CEO of AgoraEversole, a full service marketing agency in Jackson, and can be reached at Chris@AgoraEversole.com. He and his wife, Stacy, live in Madison and have adult children and three grand boys.
