“For in Christ all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form, and in Christ you have been brought to fullness. He is the head over every power and authority.” –Colossians 2:9-10 (NIV)
A life lived in selfless service—that’s Jesus.
World Humanitarian Day, which is observed every year on Aug. 19, honors humanitarian workers who risk their lives to help people affected by conflicts, disasters, and crises. Jesus is truly the ultimate humanitarian, not only by being fully human and fully God, but also by sacrificing his humanity for us. As God in human form, divinity and humanity beautifully combined, Jesus shows us how to step out into difficult situations and truly live as servant leaders.
Serving others
When we serve others, we mirror the heart of Jesus. Here are just a few of the ways Jesus worked as a divine humanitarian:
Healing the sick: Jesus’ heart is continually touched for the hurting, broken people around Him.
- “Jesus went throughout Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom, and healing every disease and sickness among the people. News about him spread all over Syria, and people brought to him all who were ill with various diseases, those suffering severe pain, the demon-possessed, those having seizures, and the paralyzed; and he healed them.” –Matthew 4:23-24 (NIV)
- “At sunset, the people brought to Jesus all who had various kinds of sickness, and laying his hands on each one, he healed them.” –Luke 4:40 (NIV)
- “That evening after sunset the people brought to Jesus all the sick and demon-possessed. The whole town gathered at the door, and Jesus healed many who had various diseases. He also drove out many demons, but he would not let the demons speak because they knew who he was.” –Mark 1:32-34 (NIV)
Feeding the hungry: Jesus’ hands are continually working for the nourishment of His people.
- “And he directed the people to sit down on the grass. Taking the five loaves and the two fish and looking up to heaven, he gave thanks and broke the loaves. Then he gave them to the disciples, and the disciples gave them to the people. They all ate and were satisfied, and the disciples picked up twelve basketfuls of broken pieces that were left over.” –Matthew 14:19-20 (NIV)
- “During those days another large crowd gathered. Since they had nothing to eat, Jesus called his disciples to him and said, ‘I have compassion for these people; they have already been with me three days and have nothing to eat.’” –Mark 8:1-2 (NIV)
Caring for those in need: Jesus continually looked to pour grace on weary souls.
- “Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has been pleased to give you the kingdom. Sell your possessions and give to the poor. Provide purses for yourselves that will not wear out, a treasure in heaven that will never fail, where no thief comes near and no moth destroys. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” –Luke 12:32-34 (NIV)
- “As Jesus looked up, He saw the rich putting their gifts into the temple treasury. He also saw a poor widow put in two very small copper coins. ‘Truly I tell you,’ He said, ‘this poor widow has put in more than all the others. All these people gave their gifts out of their wealth; but she out of her poverty put in all she had to live on.’” – Luke 21:1-4 (NIV)
Ways we can follow Jesus’ example
“Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’ The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’” – Matthew 25:35-40 (NIV)
As Christ-followers, we can walk in His footsteps by acting as faith-focused servant leaders. We’ll never reach Jesus-level standards of service or perfection on this side of heaven. None of us are God in human form, nor should we try to be. Christ sacrificed Himself for our restoration—we can never repay that kind of love.
That’s why God doesn’t ask us for perfect service; He asks us to be obedient bearers of His goodness and light. Here are a few ways to get started:
- Research missionaries to support: Particularly consider missions that spread the gospel while also building up the area where they serve.
- Donate or volunteer: Explore serving at charities or nonprofits that support your local community.
- Personally support someone in your own community: Do you know anyone who needs financial, emotional, or spiritual support? Take tangible steps to uplift them in their time of need.
- Serve in your church: Ask your pastor or leaders for areas that need support.
When we act as biblical humanitarians, we help bring God’s hope to a hurting world.
