When Saint Basil came to the monastery one day, he said to the abbot, ‘Do you have someone here who is obedient?’ The other replied, ‘They are all your servants, master, and strive for their salvation.’ But he repeated, ‘Do you have someone who is really obedient?’ Then the abbot led a brother to him, and Saint Basil used him to serve during the meal. When the meal ended, the brother brought him some water for rinsing his hands. Saint Basil said to him, ‘Come here, so I may also offer water to you.’ The brother allowed the bishop to pour the water. Then Saint Basil said to him, ‘When I enter the sanctuary, come, so that I may ordain you deacon.’ When this was done, he ordained him priest and took him with him to the bishop’s palace because of his obedience. (The Wisdom of the Desert Fathers and Mothers, pages 97-98).
Often when we think of humility, we think of serving others. Seldom do we associate having obedience and the ability to be served with humility. Humility is born first out of obedience. If we are first obedient, then serving or allowing others the opportunity to serve will take care of itself. Focus on obedience. If you do so, you will naturally be a servant.
- Monday – Acts 7
- Tuesday – Acts 8
- Wednesday – Acts 9
- Thursday – Acts 10
- Friday – Acts 11
- Our ministers and their families.
- Friends and family members battling illness.
- Those seeking to find their way.
- Teachers and students as they transition.
- The United Methodist Church family.
- The Covid-19 Pandemic.
- Our nation and our leaders.
“Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need and thank him for all he has done.” – Philippians 4:6