Render Sacred Service

Another Greek word having to do with our worship is la-trei'a, translated "sacred service"  in the New World Translation.  Sacred service has to do with acts of worship.  For example, the 84-year old widow and prophetess Anna is described as "never missing from the temple, rendering sacred service [a Greek word related to la-trei'a] night and day with fastings and supplications."  (Luke 2:36, 37)  Anna worshiped Jehovah with constancy.  She is a fine example for us-young and old, men and women.  Even as Anna prayed to Jehovah earnestly and worshiped him regularly at the temple, our sacred service includes prayer and meeting attendance. -Romans 12w:12; Hebrews 10:24, 25.

The apostle Paul mentioned a major feature of our sacred service when he wrote: "God, to whom I render sacred service with my spirit in connection with the good news about his Son, is my witness of how without ceasing I always make mention of you in my prayers."  (Romans 1:9)  Yes, the preaching of the good news is not only a public service to those who hear it but also an act of worship to Jehovah God.  Whether we find a receptive  ear or not, the preaching work is sacred service rendered to Jehovah. Our endeavoring to tell others about the fine qualities and beneficent purposes of our beloved heavenly Father certainly brings us great joy. -Psalm 71:23.

Next time: Where Do We Render Sacred Service

The Watchtower, 2000