What can we learn about serving others from Peter's mother-in-law's actions? A Snapshot of Selfless Service “When Jesus came into Peter’s house, He saw Peter’s mother-in-law lying in bed with a fever. He touched her hand, and the fever left her, and she rose and began to serve Him.” (Matthew 8:14-15) Immediate Response to Grace • Healing came first, service followed instantly—no delay, no excuses. • Gratitude was expressed not merely in words but in action. • The order matters: we serve because He first serves us (cf. Mark 10:45). Service Flows from Gratitude • Psalm 116:12—“How can I repay the LORD for all His goodness to me?” Service is the natural answer. • Galatians 5:13—“Serve one another in love.” Peter’s mother-in-law models love-motivated service. Serving in the Ordinary • She likely prepared a meal or offered hospitality—common tasks, yet honored by Scripture. • Colossians 3:23—“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord.” • Everyday chores become sacred when done for Christ and His people. Empowered to Serve by Christ’s Touch • Jesus not only removes sickness; He restores strength for ministry. • 2 Corinthians 9:8—God supplies “all you need, so that you will abound in every good work.” • We never serve in our own power; healing and enabling come together. Quiet Ministry, Lasting Impact • No recorded words from her, yet her deed is remembered in three Gospels (Matthew 8, Mark 1, Luke 4). • 1 Peter 4:10-11—“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others… so that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ.” • Faithfulness in small things amplifies Christ’s glory. Putting It into Practice Today • Receive Christ’s work in you first—salvation, healing, daily mercy. • Look for immediate, tangible ways to bless others at home, church, workplace. • Embrace mundane tasks as ministry: cooking, cleaning, hosting, listening. • Serve with a grateful heart, confident that Christ supplies strength moment by moment. |
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