“So she said, ‘Drink, my Lord.’ Then she quickly let her pitcher down to her hand, and gave him a drink. And when she had finished giving him a drink, she said, ‘I will draw water for your camels also, until they have finished drinking.’ Then she quickly emptied her pitcher into the trough, ran back to the well to draw water, and drew for all his camels. And the man, wondering at her, remained silent so as to know whether the Lord had made his journey prosperous or not” (Genesis 24:18-21).
It was the summer of 2011 when Hurricane Sandy landed in New York State, causing significant damage. Many people were evacuated from their homes, sleeping in churches, schools, and other government-appointed locations. Once the storm abated, Jade decided to see where the most help was needed. Jade loves to serve, and she looks for every opportunity to do so. She went on several mission trips with ASAP, Maranatha, and trips organized by individual churches. She has served in Ghana, Honduras, Haiti, and Cambodia. Now it was time to help her local brothers and sisters.
At first, Jade went to a nearby church that was preparing food for those who had no electrical power. Jade helped with that. Then the following day, she drove 40 miles from her home to help distribute canned foods, flashlights, batteries, and various toiletries to those whose homes had been ruined by the hurricane. Finally, she was called to assist at York College to cheer up the children living there temporarily due to the hurricane.
During her time of service, Jade met Eli. She could tell Eli was smitten with her, and he quickly asked for her phone number. Eli offered to drive her to where she needed to be. Soon both Eli and Jade found themselves serving together. A beautiful friendship developed. After eight years of just being friends, Eli confessed his love for Jade, and today they are engaged to be married. Jade said she had never been properly loved until Eli came into her life. He was attentive and mature and never came to visit without bringing her a gift, even if it was a small token like a candle. Eli's consistency won over Jade's heart, and today not only are they best friends because of eight years of friendship but they will soon be bonded for life.
Rebekah received her greatest blessing because she had developed a spirit of service. That fateful day in Mesopotamia, she offered to give water to Abraham's manservant and also to the camels. Now one thing I know is that camels drink a lot of water. I wonder how long that may have taken her. She did it no matter the time requirement because service was part of who she had become. Jade has the same service heart. She thought love had passed her by, forgotten all about her. After several unfit relationships, she wasn't looking for anything more, which is why it took so long for the two of them to start dating. But God was faithful, and now Jade is experiencing love for the first time in her adult life.
Call to Action
Our world would be better if we all gave more of ourselves to help others. Why not develop a spirit of service? The miracle is in service. You may not get a mate, but you will find joy and a purpose for living a better life. Ephesians 6:7-8 says, “With goodwill render service, as to the Lord, and not to people, knowing that whatever good thing each one does, he will receive this back from the Lord, whether slave or free.”
All scripture taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
