Heart of Service

Composed by: Dominic

When it comes to serving others, one of the things I'm thankful for is learning under the influence of my parents. They taught me how to give, to give much and to give often.

Through the years, I would always see my parents serve the families of our household on a weekly/daily basis. It wasn't until I started working a full time job that I realized how well my parents balanced their full time jobs, vocation of marriage and leading in ministry full time. They did everything joyfully and quietly, working diligently to provide for everyone who came to them in need and for me and my brothers. Those who were fortunate enough to meet them could tell through their witness how much they loved the Lord by their words and actions.

For me, their heart of service is the greatest teacher of love. It was through love that enabled them to continue giving despite feelings of sickness and fatigue. About two years ago, there was a period of time when my mother was sick and her kidneys were failing. Long story short, she needed a transplant. Through God's providence, my father tested to be an exact match for a kidney transplant and they soon underwent the procedure. Although the procedure limited the extent of their activities and travel, they still continue to do what they can. Since then, they have made a full recovery and are back to work and ministry full swing. I often forget that my parents are human, prone to error and fatigue. And yet to me, their pace seems never to change, they seem never to tire.

Recently, I joked with my dad, "I wish I could buy a day's worth of your time, so that you and mom can rest." He smiled and said nothing.