Last week, John and I ate dinner at a restaurant for our date night. Our waitress was exceptionally skilled at her job. She was pleasant, professional, and attentive. We never had to ask her for anything; she anticipated our needs and expertly fulfilled them. We took note of her name, and registered a compliment with her manager.
You might wonder what this has to do with visiting teaching. The message for the month of June (found here) speaks about the example Jesus Christ provided us of how to minister to others. Not only did Christ provide physical nourishment (remember the loaves and fishes?), he provided spiritual and emotional sustenance. We can follow His example as we notice the needs of others and help support them.
Some people--like our waitress last week--seem gifted with the ability to anticipate opportunities to serve others. Others of us need practice developing that quality. Linda K. Burton gave a talk in which she suggested that we "first observe, then serve." I love that reminder to look for opportunities to help!
Thanks for Jesus Christ, the perfect example.
You might wonder what this has to do with visiting teaching. The message for the month of June (found here) speaks about the example Jesus Christ provided us of how to minister to others. Not only did Christ provide physical nourishment (remember the loaves and fishes?), he provided spiritual and emotional sustenance. We can follow His example as we notice the needs of others and help support them.
Some people--like our waitress last week--seem gifted with the ability to anticipate opportunities to serve others. Others of us need practice developing that quality. Linda K. Burton gave a talk in which she suggested that we "first observe, then serve." I love that reminder to look for opportunities to help!
Thanks for Jesus Christ, the perfect example.
Kristi,
ReplyDeleteThis is so true. So many times we don't think before we act, and then that leads to a downward spiral of events.
I will be thinking about this today ..
First observe then serve
Thank you for this beautiful post..
Awesome picture - I love the lady with binoculars! Thanks for sharing!
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