Why have you come such long distances, braving all the expenses and troubles of the journey? To be in My presence and to win My Grace, isn’t it? Why then do you seek other contacts and others’ favour once you have reached this place? Why fall into grooves that deny you My presence and grace? Forget all else, and stick to the orders that I give; I want only to initiate you into the spiritual path of seva and love. Do not be ashamed that you have been asked to watch a heap of sandals, or carry water to the thirsty, or stand at the gate. The privilege and pleasure consist in the use to which you put your skill and time for helping others. You long to serve Me. Let Me tell you, serving those who serve Me gives Me as much satisfaction as serving Me. Serving anyone is serving Me, for I am in all. The relief and joy that you give to the sick and the sad reach Me, for I am in their hearts, and I am the One they call out for. God has no need of your service; does He suffer from pain in the legs, or ache in the stomach? Try to serve the godly; be a dasanudasa — servant of the servants of the Lord. The service of man is the only means by which you can serve God.
– Divine Discourse, Mar 04, 1970