You’re gonna have to serve somebody

Published 12:40 pm Monday, March 2, 2026

I’m a preacher. I’ve been one for most of my life. It’s been a role I’ve relished. In many respects, my identity has been tied to being a minister. I’d like to think I’ve been good at it.

After losing my first wife and our second-born son in a double murder, I swore I’d never be a preacher again. That brings us to lesson number one for today: “Don’t tell God what you are not going to do.” He gave me about two years off, then said, “Surprise,” and was I ever.

As I said, much of my life has been spent in the pulpit, week after week, month after month, year after year. But whether I like it or not, the writing is on the wall. I’m seeing this part of my life slowly but surely come to an end. I’ll probably always be a preacher at heart, but full-time work with the church seems to be almost over.

And that leads to lesson number two: There are multiple opportunities, multiple ways to serve people. When I say multiple ways, I really do mean multiple ways. Those opportunities may come with certain jobs, roles, or positions. On the other hand, they may simply arise from common, normal, everyday interactions. You may find an opportunity to serve even when you are treated unfairly. Remember what Jesus said about going the extra mile? Other opportunities might simply be times or places to encourage. All of that to say, every situation and interaction can be used to do good to others!

Here’s lesson number three: Serving others is exactly why you are here. Seriously, no matter your title, position, or lack thereof, each of us is meant to serve, add value, bring meaning, and encourage the people around us.

The questions that arise are twofold: who you are serving and how you are serving. There’s a world out there waiting for what you can do to make life better. Don’t limit yourself. It could be at your job, church, gym, or home. Better yet, there are probably opportunities to serve others in every facet of your life.

Long ago, Bob Dylan sang, “You’re gonna have to serve somebody.” If you know the song, he framed it as a choice between the devil and the Lord.

I think Mr. Dylan was onto something. Serving others is God’s work, while serving oneself is the devil’s agenda. See, I told you I was a preacher—I even turned this column into a sermon.

Choose others. Serve others. Make a difference. You’ll be glad you did.

“For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” (Mark 10:45)