We did not come to be served, but to serve. Yet here we are, being blessed beyond compare by our hosts and they won’t let us lift a finger. It was hard to accept, at first. We arrived to a parade- music followed us through the grounds while we were lead up to our rooms. We are served three meals a day and given everything we will ever have need for, and more.
At first, I was taken aback. Then I was uncomfortable with all the gifts and service. Then I thought it was too much- as food was constantly given and we were encouraged to eat. We traveled to Central Java for a few days and again the same hospitality was shown. I even started eating smaller meals to make room for all the in between snacks we were given, just so I could still respect our hosts.
Frustration started to creep in as I grew more tired. I was sick of eating, sick of traveling, and sick of being around people. No, I didn’t want more rice. No, I didn’t want to get back in the car. No, I didn’t want to take selfies with 50 people, one after another. My stomach was sore, my body was sore, and my cheeks were sore. I didn’t want to be grabbed by any more people as they pushed themselves towards us to show us honour and respect.
Then I stood back and looked at my attitude. Where was my gratitude? Where was my honour and my respect? I was becoming entitled- to my space and my time and what I expected should happen in each situation. How could I expect to serve with humility if I couldn’t accept it with humility? Yes, I was tired. But how did that justify the annoyance and frustration I was feeling by being shown love?
Attitude in check, I realised that the way I will show love and the way I will serve is by accepting their love and their service. It may be uncomfortable at times but if showing them the love of Christ means that I need to eat a second lunch and three dinners (despite my stomach ache!), then I will.
