Life of Service

There are far more witty sayings about unselfish service than practical examples illustrating them in real life. One brave person who practiced what he taught was Albert Schweitzer (1875–1965). He was born on January 14, 1875, in the German province of Alsace-Lorraine and eventually became a renowned theologian, musician, philosopher, and physician. Dutch nurse Maria J. Lagendijk said, “He was a true Alsatian.

He had the charm of a Frenchman and the solidity of a German.”30 In 1904, Schweitzer read an article on the need for physicians in the French colony of Gabon in equatorial Africa. To everyone’s dismay, he gave up his brilliant career as a professor at the University of Strasbourg and enrolled in medical school. In April 1913, he and his wife went to Lambaréné, where they built a jungle clinic. He later explained, “For years I had been giving of myself in words, and it was with joy that I had followed the calling of theological teacher and of preacher.

But this new form of activity would consist not in preaching the religion of love, but in practicing it.”31 Dr. Schweitzer was awarded the 1952 Nobel Peace Prize on December 10, 1953. But he returned to Africa and used the prize money for his leper hospital at Lambaréné. Shortly before she died, his wife asked him how long he was planning to stay in Africa. He replied, “As long as I draw breath.” He was fully convinced that “the most precious gift in life is to live not for ourselves but for the benefit of others, for truth and goodness.” Regarding unselfish service, Schweitzer added, “Everyone must work to live, but the purpose of human life is to serve and to show compassion and the will to help others.

Only then have we ourselves become true human beings.” “Example is not the main thing in influencing others, it’s the only thing.” Reflect today on these statements and how they can impact your life.