The Gift of Serving: “The Collaborator”

“if your gift is serving, then serve” Romans 12:7

In The Greek: Diakonia: Those who execute the commands of others. In modern parlance, it’s more akin to someone who “gets it done.” The concept entails someone who is high capacity and tireless in executing vision, not of a minion being bossed around.

Collaborators love to give and live to serve. They are focused and assertive.  They are self starters who don’t need to be managed or motivated.  Collaborators place a high value on their relationships and are ready to jump in to help at a moment’s notice. They are selfless, others needs come first. They are feelers who lead with their hearts. They are a force of nature on the outside, but tender on the inside.  They thrive as event planners, caregivers, medical profession, homemakers and just about any role that involves helping others. 

John Mark was a Collaborator that served the ministries of Paul, Barnabas, and Peter. He joined them on mission journeys to help them. He was so dependable that Paul requested John Mark to be the one to bring him his cloak and parchments to him in his death row prison cell.  The Gospel of Mark is fast-paced, action-packed and doesn’t wait for you to catch your breath. And yet it’s dependable, thorough, and covers the big picture without getting bogged down.  Fast paced, working with a team, getting stuff done, trust worthy, and heart-felt.  That’s the Collaborator.