Service takes many forms, from the ministry to ushering, but in whatever form it takes, we must be careful of our attitude. When we do it to distraction, it can be a problem.

At the Feast years ago, my husband was in pain, so he went to the lobby. There he and a minister were talking, when an usher approached them and rudely said they should be quiet. The men thought that they'd been loud, so they apologized and whispered. A moment later the usher returned, only this time he threatened them. Insulted, both men said their good-byes and left the area.

The usher was trying to do a good job, but did he? He neglected the feelings of his brothers; the men weren't disturbing anyone. Had the usher kindly asked the men to move outside or offered an explanation, their feelings would have been spared.

I have often thought of this man and wondered why he was neglectful, until the day I was hurtful and overzealous in my duties.

I had been asked to serve on the church snack service. Anxious to help, I arrived early to set up. During preparation, another member approached me. He tried to explain that there was coffee left by the previous users of the hall, but I didn't let him finish. I told him that we used instant coffee. He again attempted to tell me about the urn full of coffee, free for our use, but again I cut him off.

I didn't hear until I shut my mouth and gave him time to explain. He ended with the comment: "Don't shoot the messenger!" I was apologetic, but I couldn't take back my rudeness or the poor impression I'd made.

I returned to my duties, but was still overly focused on them and at the end of the day someone said, "Wow you didn't even say hello to me today." That's when it hit me. I was that usher. I hadn't yelled, but I'd neglected even the simplest of courtesies.

We mustn't allow our diligence in serving to take our focus away from those we are serving. We may have to be about our business, but there's no reason we can't stop and say hello or take the time to listen.