The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them, and those in authority over them are called benefactors. But not so with you. Rather, let the greatest among you become as the youngest, and the leader as one who serves. Luke 22: 25-26

When they first came on the market, Pamie didn't want a microwave oven, and I didn't want a cell phone.

We're not sure why we were so reluctant to move forward with technology. Maybe it's our stubborn German streak; maybe it's because we thought, "If our parents didn't need such new-fangled gadgetry, why should we?" Today we're not sure how we got along without either of these technological marvels.

Maybe the people of Cuba feel the same way.

According to a CNN that ran last week, President Raul Castro will soon allow ordinary Cubans to have their very own cell phones. Now, please don't think the general Cuban population will soon look like North Americans who seem to have a cell phone glued to their ears. That's not going to happen, at least not soon. The price to own a cell phone is prohibitive to the average Cuban who earns a salary of twenty dollars a month.

Even so, this is a major step in policy and it wouldn't surprise me if many Cubans were calling Raul Castro their "benefactor." Maybe he will be, I don't know.

I do know that in the person of Jesus Christ, this sinful world has been given a true benefactor. Anyone who has read the Gospels, who understands the sacrifices Jesus made as humankind's suffering Servant, must be moved by His incomparable love.

From His birth in Bethlehem, through His years of ministry, to His suffering and death on the cross and His glorious resurrection victory, Jesus served. He gave His life as the ransom price for our salvation. There is no one like Him, and Jesus remains our benefactor. He is the One who serves and saves.

Now, He asks those who have seen His sacrifice be given a thankful heart so they can serve others. Indeed, today the Holy Spirit may give you such an opportunity. If He does, won't you be the Lord's leader who serves?

THE PRAYER: Dear Lord Jesus, Your sacrifice shows You as my true benefactor. May I, touched by Your service and suffering, be motivated to reflect Your commitment in the way I serve others. In Your Name. Amen.

In Christ I remain His servant and yours,

Today's Bible Readings: Judges 4-6    Luke 13:1-22

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