Willingly, Eagerly, and as an Example

1 Peter 5:1-4(NKJV)

The elders who are among you I exhort, I who am a fellow elder and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and also a partaker of the glory that will be revealed: 

Shepherd the flock of God which is among you, serving as overseers, not by compulsion but willingly, not for dishonest gain but eagerly; 

nor as being lords over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock; 

and when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that does not fade away.

How are the elders supposed to serve?  Willingly, eagerly, and as an example.

How should the rest of us serve? Grudgingly, hesitantly, and as a bad example?  Of course not!  We need to follow Christ's example.

As we again enter the Christmas Season there is an increased need for Christians to serve their fellow man.  This of course competes with all of the other demands on our time during the holiday season.  So how are we to answer that call?

Willingly, Eagerly, and as an Example.

We are to deliver the "Good News" of Christ through our words and actions.  If you can look at your life and feel that you have been truly blessed by your relationship with Jesus Christ, then why not make it a point this year to answer the call and share that blessing with those that need it by serving them Willingly, Eagerly, and as an Example. 

How can we do that?  Any number of ways.  If you are a member of a church, then volunteer and get active in your churches holiday outreach efforts.  There are also many Community Christian Charities that could use some help.  If you don't have an opportunity readily available then seek one out. 

And again here is the key.  Do it Willingly, Eagerly, and as an Example.  Do it joyfully,  happily, excitedly; as you pass on the Good News of a relationship with Jesus!