By Lisa Wilmore
Scripture to Ponder: The king of Jericho was told, “Look, some of the Israelites have come here tonight to spy out the land.” So the king of Jericho sent this message to Rahab: “Bring out the men who came to you and entered your house, because they have come to spy out the whole land.” But the woman had taken the two men and hidden them… (But she had taken them up to the roof and hidden them under the stalks of flax she had laid out on the roof.) (Johsua 2).
Dear Hearts,
It is always a joy to know and witness people who go ‘beyond the call of duty’ to help others. Persons who provide service to others by sacrificing their time, energy, and comfort walk in the footsteps of Jesus. Although helping others is not always easy, yet it is what makes God smile in knowing that He has servants who give selfishly.
One of the most powerful accounts of sacrificial help in the Bible is the story of Rahab, the prostitute of Jericho. As our aforementioned Text reveals, Rahab showed extraordinary faith when she hid two Israelite spies sent by Joshua. She knew it could cost her life, but she believed in Israel’s God, saying, “The Lord your God, He is God in heaven above and on the earth beneath” (Joshua 2:11). Her courage was not based on her reputation or status, but on her faith. She acted, not for reward, but to honor a God she had only heard about. In doing so, she saved lives and became a part of the lineage of Jesus Christ (Hebrew 11:31; Matthew 1:5).
Rehab’s spirit of selfless service is reflected today in immeasurable numbers of people which often go unnoticed. These people help others with no thought of recognition. Among them are pastors and preachers, who week after week prepare, pray, and pour out their lives to feed their congregations spiritually- teachers, school leaders, and countless others who go beyond their job descriptions to guide and care for the next generation. These persons reflect the One who said, “The Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many” (Matthew 20:28).
Of course, Jesus gave up everything-His position, His comfort, even His life, to rescue sinners like us. When we serve others unselfishly, we reflect His heart. Whether you are sharing the love of Jesus, teaching in a classroom, or simply offering kindness to someone in need, know this: when you help others with no agenda but love, you are walking in the footsteps of Jesus Christ. Sometimes this path may be costly; however, it leads to an eternal reward.
Love you with the heart of Jesus!
Jesus Saves!
