Is Serving a Joy?
Daniel Su

 


I still remember that afternoon when, stepping into the kitchen, I saw my son Aaron, an amateur chef, sharpening his knife by the counter. His movements were steady and deliberate, each pass against the whetstone precise and purposeful. After a few strokes, he would test the blade, running it through the air and examining it. His face lit up when he cut a piece of paper perfectly, the blade gliding through with ease. As he lifted the knife, glimmering in the sunlight, I could almost hear him say, "I'm Aaron Su, and I approve this knife!"

It wasn’t just about the perfect edge, though. Every dish he creates is a reflection of his love for both the craft and the people who will enjoy it. He finds joy both in cooking and in seeing people savor the meals he prepares.

Just to double-check, I asked him, “Is cooking a chore or a joy for you?” He smiled and said, "It is a joy."

That moment stayed with me. As I reflected on it in the context of our COM ministry, I realized that so much of what we do can feel like the chore of sharpening a knife—repetitive, unseen, and sometimes tiring. The demands of ministry are constant and can sometimes feel like a burden. In the midst of it all, unfortunately, we may miss out on the joy.

So, is serving a joy? You may say, "It should be." But is it?

Psalm 100:2 reads: "Serve the Lord with gladness; come before Him with joyful songs."

It struck me that to serve with gladness is a command here—as if God is acknowledging that there are times when joy does not flow naturally. That’s why he calls us to overcome reluctance or mere obligation and to serve with gladness and joy instead.

At its core, it is a privilege to give of ourselves and serve and impact the lives of others; we participate in God’s work, bringing his love, truth, and hope to those who need him. When done from this perspective, giving and serving are transformed into acts of sacrifice and joy. Isn’t that reason enough for us to serve with joy?

Thank you for giving and serving! May God’s joy be yours today.


Feburary 2025