In 'How Do We Serve,' Father Jim reflects on the importance of service in the Christian life. He begins by sharing the story of a young woman named Aren, who returned from a mission trip to the Philippines, where she and her classmates helped build and paint classrooms. Father Jim explains that while the physical work done on such trips is valuable, the real benefit is the sense of solidarity and connection the mission creates, showing the international and intercultural nature of the Church. More importantly, it introduces young people to the joy of service, a concept that is not always embraced in today's culture, which often prioritizes personal convenience over serving others.
Father Jim emphasizes that being a follower of Jesus requires embracing a life of service, contrasting Jesus’ example of servitude with the self-serving desires of the apostles James and John. Jesus taught that He came not to be served, but to serve, and His ultimate act of service was giving His life on the cross. Father Jim calls on Christians to follow this model by seeking out opportunities to serve others, especially through mission trips or volunteer work, noting the importance of developing a mindset of service early in life.
Father Jim also highlights the many ways in which members of his parish serve, both through formal volunteer work and simple acts of kindness like helping neighbors. He notes that while many people think of service as something done outside of work hours, it is possible to view one’s everyday job as an opportunity to serve. By reframing work as an act of service to others, people can find deeper purpose and fulfillment in their daily lives.
Finally, Father Jim challenges those who struggle to see the service component in their jobs to reflect on whether their work truly makes the world a better place. He suggests that if someone finds their job disconnected from serving others, it might be time to seek new opportunities. He encourages everyone to begin each day with a prayer, asking God for the grace to serve through their work, and to end the day by reflecting on the ways they have been able to serve others.
Journal and reflect on the following questions
What does it mean to serve others, and how did Jesus show us what real service looks like?
Reflect on how Jesus’ life and actions are examples of serving others.
Why do you think Aren felt so happy after her mission trip to the Philippines?
Consider how helping others might bring joy and a sense of purpose.
Have you ever helped someone in a way that made you feel really good? What did you do, and how did it make you feel?
Think about your own experiences of service and how it impacted you.
Why is it important to care about people in other parts of the world, like the students Aren helped in the Philippines?
Reflect on the idea of global solidarity and caring for others beyond your immediate community.
How can you serve others in your everyday life, even without going on a mission trip?
Explore simple ways you can serve family, friends, or neighbors.Father Jim talks about seeing your work as a way to serve others.
How can schoolwork or other responsibilities be seen as a way to help or serve others?
Think about how even schoolwork or chores can contribute to serving others.
What is one new thing you could do this week to help someone else, either at home, school, or in your community?
Challenge yourself to take action by identifying a specific way to serve.
Discuss
Song - Build My Life
Closing prayer
Loving Father, we thank You for the example of Jesus, who came not to be served, but to serve. Open our hearts and minds to follow His example, that we may live lives of humble service to others. Give us the courage to reach out to those in need, to love without condition, and to serve with compassion and joy. May we see every opportunity—whether in our work, our communities, or our daily interactions—as a chance to reflect Your love and grace. Empower us, Lord, to be Your hands and feet in the world, always seeking to glorify You through our service. In Jesus' name, we pray, Amen.
