This is probably my favorite story from the book. As a past missionary I readily identify with the monkey. I have made that mistake so many times. I have made the mistake as a pastor also.

I challenge every missionary to at least read this book and consider its truths. You might not agree with everything but it will make you think.

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Cross-cultural Servanthood: Serving the World in Christlike Humility (Duane Elmer)

A typhoon had temporarily stranded a monkey on an island. In a secure, protected place on the shore, while waiting for the raging waters to recede, he spotted a fish swimming against the current. It seemed obvious to the monkey that the fish was struggling and in need of assistance. Being of kind heart, the monkey resolved to help the fish.

A tree precariously dangled over the very spot where the fish seemed to be struggling. At considerable risk to himself, the monkey moved far out on a limb, reached down and snatched the fish from the threatening waters. Immediately scurrying back to the safety of his shelter, he carefully laid the fish on dry ground. For a few moments the fish showed excitement, but soon settled into a peaceful rest. Joy and satisfactions swelled inside the monkey He had successfully helped another creature.’

The story does not tell us the degree of humility or arrogance the monkey possessed. But, then, that was not the real issue as far as the fish was concerned. The fish likely saw the arrogance of the monkey’s assumption that what was good for monkeys would also be good for fish. This arrogance, hidden from the monkey’s consciousness, far overshadowed his kindness in trying to help the fish. Thus good intentions are not enough.

Others can’t see our motives, only our actions, which become the basis for their impression of us. In like manner, missionaries will need to learn the local cultural patterns so that their desire to serve will be seen as serving and not be misinterpreted.

The following quotes come from

Cross-cultural Servanthood: Serving the World in Christlike Humility (Duane Elmer)

This is a tremendous book that I highly recommend to all who are spiritual leaders, pastors, missionaries, etc.

I enjoy very much how he shows me my wrong in seeking leadership!

When God chose to connect with humans, he did so as a servant. It was a most unlikely way to connect, for servants are usually invisible. They wear white uniforms, perform lowly tasks, remain largely silent and, if effective, seem not to be there. People look past them and rarely acknowledge them until needed for a chore. Their rights are few, their power negligible and their status as the dust.

NOT THE ROBE BUT THE TOWEL

The disciples of Jesus never seemed to get it, at least until it was nearly too late. They envisioned themselves wearing the “robe,” enjoying the royal status along with privileges, a big name, prominence and lots of perks. In my embarrassingly honest moments, I find myself too much like the disciples.

The “towel,” serving others, putting myself out for someone I don’t know, thinking of others more highly than myself, putting others’ needs before my own, doesn’t appeal to me. I prefer being closer to the “throne,” nearer the people of power and the place of privilege. We can easily criticize the disciples until we realize that we share deeply their self-centeredness, warped priorities and brokenness.

His life was given to carrying the towel, the symbol of humble, obedient and, ultimately, suffering service.

We are not to follow him in his lordly role but in his servant role.

Greatness is not the goal. Service is the goal, and greatness is defined by Christ in his lifelong exercise of servanthood: “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant” (Mt 20:26).