An unlikely role model for servants like us

So here’s the story line.  Isaac’s father, Abraham, sent his chief servant to go and find a wife for Isaac.  The servant asked God to lead him to the woman of God’s choosing and his prayer was answered in the person of Rebekah.  After the servant’s travel ... his prayer ... prayers answered ... the giving of gifts, it all came down to one question for Rebekah, “Will you go with this man?” and [SPOILER ALERT!] her reply, “I will go.” 

It is a inspiring story of unsung heroes, of obedience and perseverance, of faith overcoming doubt, of promises fulfilled, and the beginnings of love.  I recommend the book! 

Yet the story is also a depiction of God’s mission for us.  Jesus calls us his friends and he sends us forth to serve as he serves.  So let’s consider the story again, only this time looking to Abraham's chief servant as our role model.  Like him, we are on a mission.  And from him, we can learn much.

We are sent to find those chosen to belong to the “bride” of Christ – his church and its people.  Are we willing to pray for God's guidance and then actively search for the people of his choosing today? 

We, too, are sent with gifts, but of far greater worth than silver and gold.  How do we not only speak of Christ, but also confirm his love through gifts of light and life, peace and joy? 

They asked Rebekah, “Will you go?”  How do we muster this kind of boldness?  How do we pop the question?  And are we overthinking something this simple? 

When Rebekah replied, “I will go,” the chief servant brought her to the son of his master.  Are we willing to usher the willing safely into the presence of Christ? 

We’ve been given a gift: to live as servants.  Nothing could be more honorable.  Nothing could be more exciting. 

May we all look for our divine assignments today and then serve in humble obedience. 

[Today’s reading, Genesis 24:50-58, is excerpted from the story of the chief servant’s mission to find the bride of Isaac.  Click here to read this story.]