Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.

Philippians 2:4 ESV

 

God called me to be a red-basket servant–like one of those red plastic baskets some restaurants use to serve fries, chips, and chicken wings.

 

But let me explain. I endure fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue. Sometimes, my body hurts and brain fog hides my thoughts.

As I stormed the gates of heaven, begging God to use me despite my disabilities, He showed me a picture of a red basket with some pita bread broken into pieces. The image made me hungry. Then, the Spirit spoke to my spirit: You are the basket, my servant. Always be prepared. Now go to the Bible and study both stories of Jesus feeding the multitudes.

After a snack, I opened my Bible and read the story of Jesus feeding the five thousand after His cousin John the Baptist had been beheaded (Matthew 14:10-21). Jesus was heartbroken. He tried to go to a desolate place alone, but crowds who wanted to be healed followed Him. He had compassion for them, healed them, and fed them.

On another occasion, Jesus was on a mountain healing many (Matthew 15:29-39). The people glorified the God of Israel because of all the miracles. Then Jesus fed them.

As I compared these two stories, the Spirit echoed in my heart: Like Jesus, I will use you to feed many–whether you are in physical or emotional pain, in a desolate place, or on a mountaintop filled with joy. No matter the circumstance, you are my servant. I will use you when I want and how I want. Always be prepared

I thought of the red plastic basket. It had no excellent value, but it held bread–the sustenance of life. I hold the Word of God in my head and heart, which can nourish many.  

God tests me as His red-basket servant. He has called me to serve out of fear, pain, and joy. Then, the Spirit encouraged me to cancel a book signing and help my sister move. 

“But God, she has people to help,” I protested. 

She needs you!

“You know how demanding she is.”

Do you want to serve me or not?

I helped my sister move and had a wonderful time of fellowship with my brothers and sisters. The best part was the joy I felt obeying God.

Sometimes, I am so weak and tired that I don’t want to minister to anyone. Instead, I want someone to minister to me.

Then, the Spirit called me to contact a friend to encourage them. 

“Oh Lord, You need to give me the strength.”

God never fails me when I seek His help. And He continually reminds me it’s His Spirit who empowers me to serve, no matter how much pain I’m in. When I serve reluctantly, God changes my heart when I see how my obedience glorifies Him.

My favorite red-basket moments are when God uses me to encourage a group of ladies whom I love to teach and serve. I get excited when I see the Spirit change someone’s countenance from sorrow to joy.

God sees us all as red-basket servants whom He calls to use when and where He desires. At times, I feel more like a basket case than a servant, but God reminds me He loves me no matter what. We get to serve the King of the universe.

What are some ways God can use you as a red-basket servant?

Father, I want You to use me as Your servant. Show me the ways You want to use me. In Jesus’ name, amen. 

 

Genre: Non-fiction

Copyright 2023: Red-Basket Servant: Cherrilynn Bisbano: All Rights Reserved