Redefining Greatness: The Power of Humble Service
This past Sunday at Watsonville Church of the Nazarene (WatsNaz), we gathered for our monthly Family First Sunday—a special time when our church family comes together for a shorter message, discussion time at tables, and shared communion. Every first Sunday of the month, we also enjoy a delicious breakfast together, strengthening our community as we grow in faith.
This week’s message challenged us to rethink what it truly means to be great. Our culture often measures greatness by success, status, or how many people serve us. But Jesus turned this idea upside down, showing us that true greatness is found in humility and service. He didn’t avoid uncomfortable or menial tasks—He embraced them, stepping into the messiness of humanity to serve others.
Avoiding Discomfort vs. Embracing Service
Many of us tend to avoid serving when it feels inconvenient or beneath us. A 2021 OnePoll survey revealed that a significant number of people would rather give up alcohol, sex, or even spend a week in jail just to avoid household chores! This highlights how much we resist discomfort. But what if the very tasks we try to avoid are actually moments where God is calling us to serve?
Jesus set the ultimate example. He didn’t come to be served but to serve (Matthew 20:28). The apostle Paul describes how Jesus humbled Himself, taking on flesh and willingly entering our broken world. He embraced the lowly, the outcasts, and the messy moments of life—demonstrating that true greatness is found in humble service.
A Call to Serve in Our Homes, Community, and Church
As followers of Christ, we are called to follow His example in our daily lives. This means looking for ways to serve:
At home – Helping with household chores without being asked, showing patience with family members, and meeting needs in ways that often go unnoticed.
In our community – Being there for a neighbor, coworker, or stranger in need—whether that means offering a ride, buying groceries for someone struggling, or simply lending a listening ear.
In our church – There are countless ways to serve at WatsNaz, from working with kids to greeting at the door, cleaning up after events, or leading a small group. Every act of service, no matter how small, plays a role in building heaven on earth in our community.
A Church Where Serving Is the Norm
Imagine if Watsonville Church became known as a place where serving others isn’t the exception—it’s the norm. What if people in Watsonville, Freedom, Corralitos, Pajaro, and throughout South Santa Cruz County recognized us by the way we love and serve? Jesus said, “By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another” (John 13:35).
When we serve together, we grow together. Acts of humble service, no matter how small, create ripples that extend beyond what we can see. Let’s be a church that reflects the love of Christ through selfless, joyful service—both within our faith community and beyond.
Continue the Conversation
Since this was Family First Sunday, our message was intentionally shorter to allow for more discussion time at tables. But the conversation doesn’t have to stop there!
We invite you to watch the message online and discuss the questions with your family, friends, or small group this week. How is God calling you to step into humble service? How can we, as a church, build a culture where serving is a joy and not just an obligation?
If you’re looking for a family-friendly, Bible-based, Spirit-filled church in Watsonville, we’d love to have you join us at Watsonville Church of the Nazarene. Whether you’re in Freedom, Corralitos, Pajaro, or anywhere in Monterey Bay, you’re welcome here. Let’s serve together and make a difference in our community!
If you didn’t get a chance to join us you can watch the message below.
Questions:
Where is God calling you to serve in your daily life—at home, in your community, or in the church—and what is one practical step you can take this week to humbly serve others, even if it’s inconvenient or unnoticed?
How has God uniquely gifted you through your talents, experiences, and passions, and how can you use those gifts to serve others in a meaningful way?
How can we, as a church, intentionally create opportunities for serving together in ways that reflect the love of Christ and make a lasting impact on our community?