We view servants how we are taught. We associate them with past events and experiences. If we were taught that being a servant is a noble act, we will have positive opinions about the role of a servant, however if we were taught that being a servant is an inferior act done out of necessity and obligation, our views will be negative. Often times, when we think of servants, we often think of slavery in United States. The inhumane treatment of black folks. We think of those unfortunate souls who were persecuted for being born with a different skin color. We think of forced labor.
Shall I tell you some real truth. Servants are not slaves. They are not of the lower class of society. They are not criminals, alcoholics, or drug users. They are not lazy uneducated folks who refuse to better themselves. They are simply people like me and you playing a role into the society. They are embracing their roles as human beings. They are honoring their purpose of existence. They are accepting that serving others is a greater act than only serving ourselves.
If we take a deep look into the meaning of a being a servant, we will see that a servant is a person who provides a service. A human being who chooses a profession that allows mankind to benefit from his skills. He or she may trade his time to help others. In the process they may get compensated directly from the people they serve or from an employer whom they work for. In either situation, a servant is a noble human being who willingly chooses to help others. They put the needs of others ahead of their desires.
God in the scriptures refers to His prophets as servants of mankind. If servants were considered inferior human beings, God wouldn't chose them as leaders of mankind. They would be under the ownership of someone else. They would be slaves. Instead, God refers to these servants as our hope and salvation. They are noble creations with great character and leadership ability chosen to lead us and guide us through our walk in life. Their actions are a model that we should follow.
Each of us should be concerned about the interest of others just as much as ourselves. We should be unselfish and look at the bigger picture. We need to embrace a serving attitude. We need to serve each other's needs. Next time you think of a servant, instead of envisioning a slave, think of a prophet doing Gods will and doing much good. In this case, you are the prophet and people are benefiting from your services, because you are God-sent with a very valuable skill to be a servant to someone!
- F.D