We’ve just come through a season of celebrations and gift-giving. How did that go for you?
Jesus called them together and said, “You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant… just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many” (Mt 20:25-28).
The most challenging thing about Servant Leadership is finding the narrow path between 1) serving others and 2) teaching others to love serving others for the pure joy of pleasing God.
1. How can we teach those we influence to give to others for the pure joy of loving people as we love God?
2. How can we allow those around us to experience that joy by giving us gifts? Is this easier or harder for you?
3. Discuss possible motivations for giving gifts with your family or friends.
a) To receive gifts, like a trade.
b) To be noticed by others.
c) So people think you are a good person.
d) To bring others joy.
e) To bring yourself joy by causing another to feel loved or blessed.
f) Other reasons?
2. When people give you gifts, how do you feel?
a) I am embarrassed because they gave me such a nice gift. What do they expect from me?
b) I am embarrassed because they gave me such a poor gift. What do they think of me?
c) I live in the moment, finding a way to love people as I love God. Gifts may be an expression of God’s love. After all, God is constantly giving us innumerable gifts of incalculable worth.
d) Other?
3. Discuss how it is possible for some people to be more satisfied because they brought the best gift, even if no one knows they were the person who gave it. After all, the donor is supposed to remain anonymous in this game.
“Jesus replied: ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’’ (Mt 22:37–39).
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