Holiness in our Midst: Session 121

SESSION CXXI: ON ‘GLAD SERVICE’

Story Circle Prompt: Where do you find examples of “glad service?”

More than a week later, I am still wearing black in honor of the way Queen Elizabeth II lived her life. In one news clip, she used the phrase “in glad service” for the way she sought to conduct herself as she executed her duties. In my eyes, she embodied Psalm 100:2: “Serve the Lord with gladness.” Her unwavering sense of being true to her calling, while also enjoying the tasks, touched me deeply. I, too, wish to serve “gladly,” all my days. 

I am always heartened when I see persons along my path serving without complaint or an ever-present behind-the-scenes snarkiness. I see many more examples of self-righteous, reluctant or disdainful service than “glad” service. I’m thinking now of my co-worker “Sandy,” who serves in the same assisted living center where I work. She works kindly and consistently, even when called in to work unexpectedly. She was a mail carrier most of her career, braving the elements without being grumpy about it. When her grandchildren needed a helping hand, she welcomed them into her home. “Sandy” lives with an enviable spirit of “gladness” that I can only hope to attain in the next life. But I am motivated by her to try and follow suit, here and now.

Who do you see, royalty or not, living life “gladly?”

FOR PERSONAL/JOURNAL REFLECTION:

1. Read the above reflection. In your journal, answer the following: Do I serve “gladly” in my place and time?
   
   FOR GROUP STUDY: 

       1.   Read aloud Session CXXX.

       2.   Ask each person to answer the Story Circle Prompt.

Holiness in Our Midst: Sharing Our Stories to Encourage and Heal is a monthly on-line feature created by Janis Pyle to facilitate sharing of our personal experiences, thoughts, beliefs, and spiritual practices with one another, especially through stories. Barriers are broken down when we begin to see all persons, even those with whom we disagree ideologically, as sacred and constantly attended to by a loving Creator. Each column is accompanied by a “story circle” prompt and study guides for personal and group reflection. To share your stories, contact Hannah Button-Harrison at communications@nplains.org. Janis Pyle can be reached at janispyle@yahoo.com