Testimony #2

Our second testimony comes from Pro Surfer Bethany Hamilton and can be found from the ‘iamsecond.com’ website.

QUESTIONS:

• You may have not lost your arm but what are some things that you are going through that is tough?
• What is it about Bethany’s story that resonates with you (it might inspire or be the same as what is going on with you)?
• What is the scripture verse that is whispered into Bethany’s ear by the local paramedic?
• What do you think ‘I AM SECOND’ means? Do the idea of 'your hope and dreams' change at all?

THOUGHTS:
For me, the phrase ‘I am second’ has a merged role. 
 
Firstly, as a follower of Jesus, I acknowledge that He comes first in my life and not me. He is my Lord, and his ways are good and lead to living life in its fullest (John 10:10). I want to live life in all its fullness and I wish this for others too. When reading the stories of Jesus it makes sense then, that He heals what is sick, mends what is broken and goes to those who are lost, right? Not only that, Jesus helps you and me understand the big and small things of life, how to Love God, Love others (live alongside) and Love the world we walk and swim on.

Secondly, the phrase ‘I am second’ leads me to this Bible verse. It is where Jesus says:
“just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” Matthew 20:28
 
One good image of this is where Jesus is found washing his disciples feet in John 13:1-17. Jesus the Lord of heaven and earth came to serve, lowly and humble and not expect to be waited on (like at a king in a castle or at a fine restaurant). He came to serve others.
 
If Jesus served others, and I follow Jesus and so desperately want others to have life to the full as well, it means that I too must take up the posture of serving. Servanthood, as it is known, is a dying artform in two ways, 

1. because it is no longer practiced in a world of putting myself first (it is almost extinct) 
2. it means dying to self. I must put myself behind others. Not in an abusive way but in the way of putting others first, thinking of others, helping others, giving to others even if it is out of the little we have.

 
‘I am second’ is a profound phrase. Listen, I do not do this to make Jesus or God or the Holy Spirit happy with me, I do it because I follow the King who gives life, and I want others to experience the life that he gives.

ACTION:
This rest of the week, look for opportunities to serve… 
Host a dinner party while you are at home. 
Quickly make everyone’s bed when they are not watching. 
Wash up some dishes so it allows your parents sometime together. 
Think of a board game to play with the family, instead of plodding around bored at home. ‘Safely’ go to the shops with Mum or Dad or pack away the groceries. 
Read to your brother or sister, or come up with a crazy game that might be too young for you but you know will help create fun and life in your house!
 
I AM SECOND
 
PeaceInHim,
Pastor Luke