Minister's Moment
So often when there is a lesson on service, it is focused on the joys and benefits of volunteering. For some people, it is true that the act of serving in this way evokes a feeling of well being and satisfaction. However, for others, answering the call to serve brings up feelings of obligation or resentment. For them, service feels thankless and doesn’t derive the same sense of satisfaction.
This dissatisfaction stems from our natural expectation of fair exchange. In other words, if you do something for someone, you expect to receive something of equal value in return. This idea is not unusual. In fact, it is the basis of our economy. Every day, we exchange energy (often in the form of money) for the various goods and services we need from others. And, if there is a sense of fair exchange, we generally feel good about it.
Therefore, appreciating the true value of service for its own sake requires a shift in perspective. It starts by recognizing that you are a blessing to this world, and you are here to live as Christ in expression. From this point of view, you receive your good not from the recognition or rewards of others but from the divine presence within. When you experience life in this way, you give selflessly without expectation and your acts of service become their own reward. Join us this Sunday, for an exploration of the power of selfless service.
If you can’t spend Sunday with us in person, watch the service through our
live-stream
at 11 am or catch up on any of our services through our
on-line archive
. Thank you for your interest in Unity and may your spiritual path be one of joy and fulfillment.
Namaste,
