Eighty-two days…

I am fortunate to know many people with servant hearts and attitudes.  These are individuals who will do anything for someone else, especially when it involves ministry.  However, I am privileged to know one person who impresses me far beyond words.  There is absolutely no way to express how much this woman does for the glory of God.  What completely blows my mind is how so many things she takes part in “fly under the radar.”

Not many know of all the “hats” this woman wears.  Her tireless effort to stay behind the scenes and make sure everything else runs smoothly while taking zero credit, astounds me.  I’m blessed to know her; she has made a mark on my heart.  Because she wants credit for nothing, and would be mortified if I told you her real name, I am going to call her “Phoebe.”  Why, you ask?

Romans 16:1-2

I commend to you Phoebe our sister, who is a servant of the church in Cenchrea, that you may receive her in the Lord in a manner worthy of saints, and assist her in whatever business she has need of you; for indeed she has been a helper of many and of myself also. (N.K.J.V.)

Paul wrote to the Roman Christians about Phoebe.  He spoke of her as a servant, and he asked them to treat her well.  What he says next is what captivates me.  He describes her as a helper of many.  I want to be a servant; I long to be a helper of many.  However, I also need my attitude to line up with the heart of a servant.  Often times I have been in situations where I have felt overworked, and though I started out with a servant mentality, my attitude did not reflect one.  I don’t want to be that person.  In no shape or form do I want to need credit for anything I do.  I’m working on my servant heart and attitude.

I’ve learned a tremendous amount from silently watching the “Phoebe” I know continue her diligent quest as an unrecognized, humble servant.  I’m in awe of the Apostle Paul’s friend Phoebe and her amazing dedication to the living God.  I bet she would have never thought that two thousand years later, women would be trying to emulate her servant heart.

Thank you to every servant working tirelessly to further the Kingdom of God!  You never know who you might be influencing, even on days when it’s difficult to serve.  May you be blessed today and every day.

PS:  If you happen to know me, and suspect who “Phoebe” is, please treat her kindly; she’s more deserving than you’ll ever know.