A couple months ago, I was asked to write a short devotional for an advent book for Eastern Hills Wesleyan Church in Williamsville, NY. The focus of their advent book this year was why Jesus came. Different women were given a verse to write about and relate it to our own lives as well as to the reason Jesus came. These were my thoughts:
For I have come down from Heaven, not to do my will but to do the will of Him who sent me. –John 6:38
I’m bombarded by commercials telling me what I want and advertisements selling me things to make me a better person or live an easier more comfortable life. Television, movies and even highlights from my friends’ lives on Facebook tempt me to believe I’d be happier if I had a better job, made more money or had trendier clothes. The world is constantly trying to push the focus on me and my wants.
I’m reminded my life isn’t about me in John 6:38. I’m to model my life after Jesus and his life was not about himself. Jesus’ life was about following God’s will, leading him to a life of sacrifice and service so we could know God.
This Advent season, take a moment to reflect on all Jesus has done for us to experience God. Let’s follow his lead. Instead of getting, let’s give. Instead of wondering how people can help us, let’s serve others. Instead of making sure our lives are comfortable, let’s make someone else’s life a little easier. Instead of focusing on ourselves, let’s focus on God’s will and look for ways we can serve those who do not know him and make sacrifices so that God’s love will be made known to all.