Salem's staff has once again written a devotional for the Lenten season beginning on Ash Wednesday (Feb. 22) and ending the day before Easter (Apr. 8th). Printed devotional books are available for pick up at Salem.

heidi schatte

"Whoever wants to be first among you must be your slave. That is what the Son of Man has done. He came to serve not to be served - and then he gave away his life in exchange for the many who are held hostage." - Matthew 20:28

What an amazing thing it would be if some great King's son should go into a beggar's hut to nurse him in his illness, wash off his filth and do all the things which otherwise the beggar would have to do. 

Surely all the world would gape with open mouths and would never think and talk enough about it! (Martin Luther) 

We have a God who has nothing to get and everything to give! Our God created us and designed us so that He would have creatures upon whom He could pour out His blessings. He loves us so much that His happiness comes from seeing us be the recipients of His many gifts. And He desires for us to receive His gifts in thankfulness and then allow ourselves to find happiness in the same way by giving and loving others. 

However, all of this was ruined by our fall into sin. We now desire to get from others when we can and even push our spirituality and good works up to God, as if He somehow needs these things which we seek to offer! 

Jesus declared, " The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve." God becomes our servant. Like the King's Son, Jesus came to us to wash us clean and to demonstrate His Father's great love. He came, not to get, but to give His life as a ranson for us sinners. Not only did He become a man, but He laid down His life as He humbled Himself to carry our afflictions and our sin, yes, the whole world's sin and death. God suffered and died for me! And this He did purely by grace, as a gift, for you and me. Can we ever think, praise or talk enough about it? 

Thank you Lord, for taking my punishment upon yourself. Enable me to live my life as Your servant, bless to be a blessing to others. Help me to serve with a loving, giving spirit. Amen.